Source: CCTV.com

04-23-2008 10:08

More than 100 men came from several countries to take part in that challenge of manly hirsute-ness - the German beard and moustache championships. They assembled in a small Bavarian town, seeking validation to the claim that their facial foliage is not only outrageous, but beautiful.

More than 100 men came from several countries to take part in that challenge of manly hirsute-ness - the German beard and moustache championships.(File photo)

Organized by the Eastern Bavarian Beard and Moustache Club, the event in Eging am See drew competitors from Britain, Germany, Switzerland and other countries. Each competitor faced a seven-member mixed-gender jury, whose august deliberations would award the "most beautiful beard" title, in three different categories.

Jury member Thomas Zauener explained the complexities of the "different categories: natural beards, moustaches and styled beards." It remains for speculation why jury panelist Zauner wears neither a beard nor a moustache. Perhaps he earns a living and must choose between having a career or grooming his facial hair.