At Outdoor Divas’ pre-Halloween drag fashion show in October, the women’s retail store staff let the men steal all the attention, and stretch out featured merchandise, as they strutted onto stage in the latest and greatest winter threads. In the name of winter and breast cancer awareness, the drag queens were encouraged to shine and sparkle in new apparel from Burton, Betty Rides, K2 and Oakley. “The event put a lot of positive energy into a cause that everyone is affected by in some way or another,” said Rachel Northrup, 25, who helped dress the men and choreograph their runway moves. “The community got involved and the guys were really committed to their roles.” As the DJ blasted strut-your-stuff hits from the late ‘90s, thong-baring backsides and flowing wigs graced the runway. The event raised $1500 for Boarding for Breast Cancer (b4bc.org), a foundation created by several female riders in 1996 to promote breast cancer awareness efforts and healthy lifestyles among young women. “I think Outdoor Divas did a good job to get the community excited about the winter season,” said Olympic silver medalist, Winter X Games superpipe champion and snowboarding star Gretchen Bleiler, also the night’s MC. “It’s such a creative way to throw an event for Boarding for Breast Cancer.” Attendees enjoyed not only colorful and scantily-clad entertainment, but massages and cocktails. Many participated in a silent auction to win a snowboard signed by Bleiler. At the post-show party, spirits were high and drag show participants were slow to remove their eyeliner and crop tops. “They clearly loved showing their bodies,” said observer Debra Streifler, 22, of Boulder. “Some of the clothes were a little tight but the guys were totally into it.” Regional product reps Rob Howland with Betty Rides and K2, Matty Alberts and Brando Berringer with Solomon and Bonfire and Tony Torrance from Pearl Izumi showed off everything from mini-skirts to one-piece ski suits. “I didn’t know any of the guys and now we’re all best friends,” said Bleiler. “It’s really amazing what women’s clothing and a little make-up can do – it really opens them up.” For many of the models, participation in the event was meaningful beyond fashion and fun. “I hope we raise enough money to do this again next year,” said male-model-for-the-night Benjamin Schenburn, a resident of Boulder. “Breast cancer affects everyone.” Next year, Schenburn suggests that Outdoor Divas auction off the models to the ladies in the crowd – he’s willing to sacrifice his freedom for a good cause. The waiting list of men hoping to be transformed into Divas next Halloween is already growing. | 
