While most of us were enjoying a three-day weekend, two of South Florida’s standout leathermen were hard at work competing at International Mister Leather (IML). While the results weren’t what their fans hoped for, the experience was invaluable.

Razr Steele, Mr. Eagle Wilton Manors, nabbed a coveted spot in the top 20, finishing 14th overall.

“My weekend at IML was unlike any other experience I’ve ever had,” he said. “The 67 other contestants have quickly become part of my leather family, showing support and brotherhood that will be with me for a lifetime.”

Eagle WM is developing a reputation for strong finishes. Steven Crespo was first runner-up last year. Owner Chuck King is proud of Eagle WM’s representation.

“Razr did an amazing job and beat out 54 other contestants from around the world, placing 14th. That’s a difficult feat, and we are all so proud of him, we couldn’t be happier for him and our company!”

Sam Sanna, Mr. Ramrod also competed. While he didn’t make the top 20, he is forever affected from the weekend.

“This was a life-changing experience,” he said. “[There are] very few things that bring me to tears, but the overwhelming support and love that I was shown at this contest was too much to hold in.”

Steele echoed the weekend’s impact. “As strange as it sounds, I am a very different person after this experience.”

Both will hold their titles through autumn, and plan on continuing their philanthropic activities.

René Herbert, Mister Palm Springs Leather, won the contest. IML describes him as “the sizzling sands of Palm Springs with the cool charm of a French Canadian firebrand, René brings a perfect storm of desert, and a polish that makes all bootblacks and leatherfolk alike shine!”

He was joined on the podium by first runner-up Zephyr Merkur, Mr. Eagle NYC, and second runner-up Michael Tikili, Mr. Pittsburgh Leather Fetish.