MEET MR FIRE ISLAND BEAR

From: Bear World

 The third annual Fire Island Bear Weekend is coming on June 15th – 18th 2017. Part of the weekend is the Mr Fire Island Bear competition. We caught up with last year’s winner, Patrick Donohue, to talk about the competition. 

 BWM: Hi Patrick, let’s start with what made you enter the competition

I was at the prior years contest, and we had such an amazing time. I told my partner that I was going to talk to Shane, and see about entering for 2016. Once I spoke to him about the competition, I knew I would love to be in it.

BWM: Tell us a little bit more about yourself

I live on Long Island, born and raised, and I work as a facilities maintenance engineer. I also do mechanical consulting for new businesses in the planning stages, such as placement of infrastructure mechanical systems, etc.

BWM: What do you love about Fire island?

I love the peaceful tranquil environment, no cars and you get to enjoy the water and the nature. The people on the island are extremely friendly, the atmosphere brings out the inner niceness of most anyone who experiences it.

BWM: Do you visit Fire Island a lot?

In the Summer we try to get out as much as we can. Our schedules are usually chaotic, so when we can grab the time it’s our go to place for relaxation. 

BWM: So you won Mr Fire Island Bear 2016, how has the title changed your life?

I don’t know if it’s necessarily changed my life. It has brought out an inner confidence, that I don’t get to express that often. Everyone has been so nice, and always telling me how I am the textbook friendly teddy bear. 

BWM: Will you go on to enter other competitions? Mr North American Bear for instance?

It is something to think about. Although I’m a bit of an extrovert socially, I still have a shyness I battle once in a while. But I think I may look into doing more competitions, as it’s been so much fun. I finally found a place I belong, the bear community is one of the most accepting non judgemental places to be.

BWM: What’s the best party of Fire Island Bear Weekend?

It’s difficult to put a label on which party is the best one, they are all a lot of fun. A party is what you make of it. I also believe a party is about the person promoting it, and the group attending it. Any party of Shane’s is generally a blast, and when you get a fun loving group of bears together you really can’t go wrong.

BWM: Finally, whats your advice for anyone entering this year?

Just be yourself. I believe in my heart that sincerity and kindness, are the best ingredients you can bring to the table. Have fun, and soak up the amazing time to be had.

If you’re interested in entering the competition this year, check out the Mr Fire Island Bear page here for all the info.