The RUNESILK Story · May 2023

Opies Beard & Moustache Championships: The Beardmail Podcast Roadtrip

There is a unique vibrancy and friendliness that comes with a beard and moustache competition. It is always a great excuse to meet familiar faces and catch up with friends, both old and new.

Opies Beard & Moustache Championships brimmed with this extraordinary spirit. This annual cavalcade of hirsute marvels was perfectly staged at the Loddon Brewery in Reading, an apt setting that underscored the delightful connection between beers and beards.

In its second year, the championships continued under the steady and capable guidance of Jamie and Laura Cox. Having navigated the challenges of organising the inaugural competition fresh on the heels of a lockdown, they once again delivered a resounding success. Their dedication and passion were reflected in the event's enthusiastic turnout. The event also raises money for Daisy's Dream, a charity offering a professional support service which responds to the needs of children and families affected by life-threatening illness or bereavement.

Showing support through the Beardmail Podcast

Being part of the community of beard care producers, I felt a sense of comradeship towards the Opies organisers. Although it would have been inappropriate for me to attend this fantastic event and promote our brand, RUNESILK, I was honoured to find an alternative route to show my support.

Through our association with The Beardmail Podcast, we found the perfect channel to provide our backing for this incredible event. Sadly, my co-host Damo4Show couldn't attend the competition, but I was accompanied by Flamingo4Show, an inflatable pink bird that encouraged the crowd to join in with a group DamoPose.

This partnership allowed us to contribute to an event we held in high regard without compromising the spirit of fellowship intrinsic to the beard care community. We sponsored one of the competition's most popular categories, "Under 5 Inch Styled," which showcases some of the most groomed beards, epitomising the style and precision that beard styling can achieve.

Two trophies, and a moustache styled by a world champion

As someone who takes immense pride in growing and grooming my beard, I was thrilled to see the lengths some participants would go to for the love of facial hair. There were some phenomenal entrants this year, and this time, I threw my hat, or my beard, into the ring myself.

I entered one of the fiercely contested categories, "The 5 to 8 Inch Natural." The competition was stiff, but I secured 2nd place and a sought-after trophy.

In a spontaneous decision, I entered the "5 to 8 Inch Beard with Styled Moustache" category too. At the time, it seemed I might clinch second place by default, since there was only one other entrant when the competition kicked off. Eager to provide some entertainment and make the most of the situation, I dashed onto the stage to style my moustache.

One unforgettable highlight came when the reigning World Dali Moustache champion, Russell Bristow, graced the stage (love you, Russ) to lend his styling prowess to my moustache for the 5 to 8 inch style category. The energy was electric as he demonstrated his craft, shaping my moustache into an incredible work of art on stage, while the crowd's excitement crescendoed into applause and cheers. The surreal experience of having my moustache styled by a world champion etched this moment into my memory as one of the highlights of the day.

A humble brag, if there ever was one, but a result that left me with immense pride and satisfaction: two 2nd place trophies at OBMC 2023.

Megan, judge and competitor

I had the privilege of sharing this unique experience with my wife, Megan, who was my biggest cheerleader, and also a participant and judge on the day. A lover of all things beard related, Megan entered the "Ladies Creative Beard" category. Despite fierce competition, she claimed a well-deserved 2nd place.

Assuming the role of judge with impeccable grace, Megan embodied the event's spirit. Her selection of a bright pink suit was a sartorial triumph that left an impression on everyone present, the vibrant colour mirroring her enthusiasm and adding an infectious vitality to the atmosphere of the competition. Her innate sense of style, extensive knowledge and passion for beards made her an ideal judge for the event, bringing a level of authenticity and credibility to the role.

A community worth celebrating

All in all, the Opies Beard & Moustache Championships offered a showcase of diverse and impressive facial hair and a chance to connect with a vibrant community of enthusiasts. The event was a testament to the creativity, camaraderie and sheer fun of being part of the bearded world, and we're already anticipating the road trip to next year's competition.

A resounding round of applause and heartfelt appreciation goes to the diverse bearded communities that converged for the championships. Your solidarity and shared passion have been the lifeblood of this event, much love and respect. Warm congratulations to all the day's victors, your dedication and creativity have paid off.