The final of Mr. Gay World is only hours away, 21 countries are all vying for the title of Mr gay World 2017.
Delegates have been in full preparation for the finale which will be held in front of thousands of people at Europes Biggest Pride event in Maspalomas.
Throughout the week delegates have competed in challenges from interviews, social media campaigns, LGBT history, beach running and photo shoots before tonight gala which will see each country parade in their national costume.
Eikon spent some time with the delegates this week to see how they have been tracking and they were asked what has been their biggest challenge during the first 5 days.
Warm favourite Belgium’s Raf van Puymbroeck said it has been a very extraordinary experience so far.
“We have done a lot of things and it’s a busy schedule, but everything we do I think most of the delegates try to enjoy the most and it’s a very warm welcoming friendly group.” Raf van Puymbroeck said.
“The biggest challenge so far is the lack of sleep. It’s not a specific challenge but the less sleep and always being present and being the best version of yourself for me has been the hardest challenge.”
New Zealand’s very own Charlie Tredway acknowledged the tremendous work that has gone into putting together the week but says it has been exhausting.
“The challenges have been good, it’s been exhausting, it’s been non-stop and high voltage but it’s been really thrilling and a really well-oiled machine and its been such a pleasure to be here and to represent my country,” said Charlie.
Mr. Gay Pride Australia David Francis said he is feeling good heading into the final after the bulk of the official challenges have been held.
“The greatest challenge probably has been the language barrier. Most of the other contestants either speak English or Spanish but a few other ones don’t speak a little bit of either so it’s been challenging to communicate properly but we’ve all put in a big effort to speak English or help each other with the languages and get to know each other that way,” said David.
Chile’s Juan Pedro Pavez said he has been extremely happy with how he has gone during the week and has been excited to share the spotlight with 20 other nations from around the world.
“I hope to take all this that I have learned back to my country and then work for it in my country to solve our LGBT community problems,” explained Juan.
“The toughest challenge has been the hard work and the few hours they have to sleep.”
The finale will be held at the Yumbo Centre in Maspalomas at 10 pm local time on Wednesday night as part of the Maspalomas Pride Festival.
The event will be streamed live via the Mr. Gay World Website and eikon will be there to capture the excitement and interview the winners at the conclusion.
Last Updated on May 11, 2017
The news team for Gay Nation love tips from our readers. Got tips or a news story that you would like published? Go here to tell us something.
Visit the Gay Nation store Now