Buchan crowned Mr. Austin 2010

Published 7:32 am Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Austin High senior Andy Buchan plays nine musical instruments — but Monday night he was recognized for much more than his rhythm. Of 15 young men vying for the title of Mr. Austin, Buchan grabbed the title for his poise, personality and interview skills showcased at the pageant yesterday evening.

The Mr. Austin pageant is a longstanding tradition for Austin High School seniors, and this year’s class pulled out all the stops for a panel of student and teacher judges and a packed audience.

The 2010 showcase opened with an ensemble dance performance to a medley of Michael Jackson hits — during which all 15 contestants tried to pull of signature MJ moves, sporting silver sparkling gloves.

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Next, contestants went head-to-head in a “Work-Out Wear” competition —a contest that all participants interpreted in their own fashion. Buchan and four fellow contestants wore garb and acted out “Mortal Kombat” scenes. Other participants, competing in groups, showcased cowboy lasso throws and Olympic events — while dressing the part.

Mr. Austin hopefuls would take the stage next for a talent competition. Buchan had the crowd singing along while he played the guitar and sang 4 Non Blondes’ “What’s up.”

Malachi Oman played Journey’s “Don’t stop believin’,” while nine other contestants attempted to provide accompanying vocals.

Other crowd-pleasing acts included five contestants, dressed as jungle animals, performing Elton John’s “Circle of Life,” complete with an interpretive dance; and contestants Jeff Davis and Zach Rausch performing Napoleon Dynamite’s signature dance from the character’s namesake film.

Finally, the young men strutted their stuff in “Date Wear” challenge and answered dating questions.

The first group of contestants graced the stage as the cast from the TV show “Scrubs.” In this group, Phillip Riley II was asked what type of romantic meal he would cook for a date.

“I like fried chicken… My mom’s a chef. She could probably show me how to cook corn muffins, collard greens.”

Buchan was asked what he would do if he choked while on a date at a romantic restaurant.

He responded that he would cough until a white dove came out of his mouth. Then, naturally, the dove would cough until a red rose came out, which he would then hand to his date. The next group of contestants dressed as famous comedians for the “date wear” challenge. Eric Maloney received much applause for his impersonation of Alan from the 2009 film “The Hangover,” and was named Mr. Impersonator during the awards ceremony. Each contestant received a title from the panel of judges, though Buchan is 2010’s one and only Mr. Austin. Garth Strobel was named Mr. Congeniality; Mitch Morem, Mr. George Strait; Jacob Carroll, Mr. Scandalous; Aaron Dooley, Mr. Ego; Eric Maloney, Mr. Best Impersonator; Zach Rausch, Mr. Fashionista; Jeff Davis, Mr. COD Champion; Bobby Astrup, Mr. Romantic; Malachi Oman, Mr. Piano Man; Phillip Riley II, Mr. Betty Crocker; Joe McBeain, Mr. Best Bod; Ian Thathcer, Mr. King of the Jungle; Mike Hirsch, Mr. Muscles; Andy Buchan, Mr. Rockstar; Jordan Stasi, Mr. Olympian.

Buchan thanked the other contestants and said he couldn’t believe it when he was crowned and hoisted onto the shoulders of runners-up. He has until this fall to reign in Austin before heading to Red Wing where he will attend Southeast Technical College to study string instrument building and repair. This year’s Mr. Austin pageant was sponsored by AHS Youth Leadership and Chemical Health Awareness Initiative (CHAI) and benefits Haiti relief efforts via the American Red Cross.