Andy Struckhoff Wins MML 2015; First Leather Contest to Drug Test Contestants

ST. LOUIS, Mo. - The 32nd annual Mr. Missouri Leather (MML) weekend was held Feb. 27-March 1 at JJ’s Clubhouse with Andy Struckhoff being chosen as MML 2015 out of a field of three contestants.

Ty Portell (first runner-up) and Michael Bristow joined Struckhoff in competing in the categories of Interview, Cruise wear, Physique and Personality, Formal Wear, On Stage Question, and delivering a short speech to the crowd.

As MML 2015, Struckhoff will receive a sponsorship to International Mr. Leather 2015 in Chicago on May 22-25, $100, title sash and medallion. Runner-up Portell received $100 and a medallion.

MML has been a staple in the Missouri leather community since 1983 when Charles Scheib won the first contest at the old Bob Martin's near Union Station. 2015 marks the first year that Terry Laupp (MML 2010) and husband Chad Carroll, the men behind the St. Louis Balloon Brigade, have promoted the storied contest after officially taking over for the Gateway MC leather club which disbanded in 2014 after 40 years in existence.

This year also saw the implementation of a new drug testing policy for all contestants. MML is believed to be the first contest of its kind to embrace the drug free requirement ranging from methamphetamine to marijuana.

‘’Drug use in our community has reached epidemic proportions and in some cities is destroying the community," said the MML promoters. "It’s time for us to take a stand.’’

Opinions from contest watchers, judges and contestants on drug testing were wide ranging, but altogether positive.

"As an addict, I feel we need to hold our community leaders accountable," said Struckhoff, who also spoke movingly from the stage in sharing his personal story. "I know how it feels; I want to help anyone who is struggling; my brothers, my friends and anyone who reaches out. This has to stop.’’

While most interviewed admitted that methamphetamine use has become a real problem in the community, some questioned including marijuana on the test.

"I feel as it has become legal in some states that we should allow someone who tests positive for marijuana the ability to compete,’’ offered one audience member.

"Everything should count until its legal in the state that the contest is in,’’ countered another contest watcher.

This year's MML, the oldest leather event in the state, drew large crowds in spite of inclement weather and more contestants than the previous two years.

The weekend kicked off with interviews at Meyer's Grove and a meet and greet at JJ's with contestants, judges and a host of title holders from across the country including MML 2014 David Payne. The annual Blue Max CC used leather sale was held throughout the weekend; so was "Kink U" with DJ Kaiser (MML 2011), John Metzner (MML 2013) and Jason Zahlen where classes were offered on topics ranging from bondage restraint, straight razor shaving and flogging. The festivities concluded on Sunday with Tenacious Eats' Victory Brunch at Food Outreach.

Also held on Saturday was the informal Gateway Guy contest designed to actively involve more people in the event and perhaps to encourage future contestants for MML. The winner was chosen by audience applause.