By John Hayden
It was a night of brotherhood and triumph as Scott Jordan was proclaimed Mr. Ramrod 2024. It is the culmination of a lifetime of dedication to the leather community. But it started with the leather community’s dedication to him.
“For me, it’s about support and mentorship,” he told OutClique. “I was 18 years old and on the streets of New York. Leathermen helped me and mentored me all through my life.”
Jordan has been a member of leather communities in several major cities and has found a welcoming home at Ramrod. And in the tradition of Mr. Ramrod, each class of contestants forms a support system for the winner and each other.
“Community, support, and bonding is stressed throughout these types of events,” former Mr. Ramrod Elimination Onyx said. “It is put into action as the weekend begins. You get to know each other, share stories, uplift each other because it really is a vulnerable and emotional ride. I think this class fell right in line with that.”
The weekend started on Saturday night with the monthly Pig Dance. Contestants curated gift baskets then set out to sell raffle tickets. The competition started early on Sunday when judges interviewed the contestants. That night contestants put it all on the line in categories including Pecs and Personality, Jock Strap/Fantasy Scene, and Leather Image.
They had an extremely helpful mentor to guide them through the contest, Mr. Ramrod 2023. James Tyrcha ended his reign surrounded by other former titleholders. “This year’s Mr. Ramrod class was extraordinary,” he said. “All four of them brought something very special and unique to all the judges. The common thing between all four of them is fellowship and community growth. They were all so sexy and it was hard to keep my eyes off all of them!”
Saturday night, Tyrcha was running all over the bar, making sure the raffle went smoothly, explaining details to contestants, and giving advice at every turn. “My style of leadership is by inspiring others to be their best. A good leader will see the potential in others and bring that out in them. My whole year, I asked others to open their hearts and minds so we can grow acceptance and understanding of all human beings. I stood with the community as their symbol of hope and strength to lead our community as one inclusive and united leather and kink family!”
As the titleholder, Jordan will represent Ramrod at International Mister Leather (IML) this spring. He will also get to spotlight the issue closest to him. “My platform is mental health due to mental health issues. I’m finally well enough to serve the community at age 62.”
He went to his first leather contest when he was only 18. He credits the NYC leather community for helping him throughout his life. As Mr. Ramrod, he shines a light at the intersection of the leather community and mental health. “The intersection is about health, support, and getting the word out to people who might be in need.”
Jordan will have the support of Ramrod’s former titleholders. Elimination says it’s about forming a family. “We welcome him to our Brotherhood. We offer advice, a listening ear, and call to action if and where needed. We offer our experience of competing at IML and we will do all we can on the road leading up to ensure he is mentally, socially, and physically ready to take the stage that will house International Leather humans from all across the globe.”
Tyrcha is now the newest member of Mr. Ramrod elder statesmen. “My advice to him is to listen to the community. Hear everyone and be the one to take action for them so we can grow and become stronger, and no one will be left behind! Scott will be writing his own journey this year, and I am very excited for him!”
