The 2009 World Beard Championship came and went with a bang. As the dust settled, Anchorage, Alaska native David Traver arose victorious as the World Beard Champion.
Traver’s 20+ inch beard (took 2 years to grow) beat out over 300 overall competitors from across the world to take the title.
Traver also won in the coolest beard category as he sported a different shaded snow-shoe woven smorgasbord of facial hair.
David Traver plans to shave his beard for "whoever writes the biggest cheque to the Covenant House."
Winning Whiskers
David Traver Wins 2009 World Beard Championship (UPDATE)
Trend Themes
1. Beard Culture - Exploring the growing popularity and trends surrounding beards, including unique styles and competitions like the World Beard Championship.
2. Charitable Initiatives - The increasing trend of tying personal achievements, like winning a competition, to charitable causes and using them as opportunities to raise funds.
3. Personal Branding - The role of facial hair in personal branding and self-expression, with individuals using their beards as a distinctive feature and a way to stand out in a crowded market.
Industry Implications
1. Grooming and Personal Care - The grooming and personal care industry can capitalize on the growing popularity of beards by offering specialized products for beard maintenance and styling.
2. Nonprofit and Fundraising - Nonprofit organizations and fundraising platforms can leverage the trend of individuals connecting their personal achievements to charitable causes, creating innovative fundraising campaigns.
3. Fashion and Accessories - Fashion brands and accessory designers can tap into the personal branding aspect of beards by creating unique and stylish products targeted towards individuals with beards.