A few years ago, a young man identified as “boy bryan” burst unto the San Diego leather scene. At that time, many wondered if the newcomer with boundless energy and enthusiasm would last or burn out as many had done before him. Luckily for us, boy bryan’s enthusiasm not only lasted but propelled him to become Mr. San Diego Leather 2009, Bryan Teague. When I first met him, boy brian was more than apprehensive when it came to a “boy” competing in the Mr. San Diego Leather contest. It’s a good thing he got over himself and stepped into a role that he is meant to have.

This was a crucial and pivotal year for the San Diego leather community. There have been major changes, disagreements and even drama. I know it’s hard to believe, but, yes, there was drama. In spite of it all, San Diegans left the drama at home, rose to the challenge and exceeded all expectations. It’s liberating to only see what the audience sees and not be privy to anything happening behind the scenes. We, the audience, prefer it that way. We’re only there for the show.

It takes strong leadership, planning, determination, hours of hard work and an unwavering sense of community to create the magic of San Diego Leather Pride. The San Diego community should be extremely proud. What we, the audience experienced at San Diego Leather Pride 2009 was nothing short of “fantastical.”

Guests from all over the country found themselves caught up in the magic as well. Chief Judge, Philip Dietch of the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force and Woodhull Freedom Foundation gave closing remarks in which he talked about keeping ourselves in check and living the ideals we want people to see in us. Axel, who was also a judge, created and signed the artwork used for the Mr. San Diego Leather poster. International Leather Sir 2008, Sir Raul opened the contest at Rich’s with a hot flogging fantasy similar to the one that won him the title in October. The San Diego Eagle sponsored Raul’s trip and in return he was scheduled to do a flogging demo at the bar. Instead, he and his lover George flogged and single tailed everyone who signed up for the experience. Together they played with 10 men for a half hour to 45 minutes each until Mike Russell finally made them stop to rest.

San Diegans also showed their compassion during the weekend. Lenny Broberg, IML 1992 and one of the hardest working Masters of Ceremony in the country once again donated his time, energy and auction skills to help the San Diego community raise charitable funds. Lenny is also Officer Broberg of the San Francisco Police Department. Over the weekend, four officers in the nearby city of Oakland were killed in the line of duty. While Lenny was working hard for San Diego, San Diegans were offering heart-felt support to our friend during this traumatic time.

That’s the beauty and magic of San Diego Leather Pride. We put it all on the line to show the leather world that we really are fantastic. Mr. San Diego Leather 2009, Bryan Teague and Ms. San Diego Leather 2009, Christi Campbell have volunteered to represent the San Diego leather community to the rest of the leather world. Bryan and Christi will have to keep the magic that we felt during San Diego Leather Pride 2009 going for the next year. It’s up to the rest of us to ensure that this year for them is “fantastical.”