“Gorgeous guys in Calvin Klein underwear”.... A statement bound to get the attention of most young women. So when I heard that Calvin Klein is looking for its next rising star in the 9 Countries 9 Men 1 Winner Competition naturally I was interested in finding out more about the contest... and the fabulous guys in the competition. A prestigious panel of judges are currently reviewing all entries and will soon choose nine finalists who will represent each of the nine participating countries in Europe. The lucky nine will then vie for a one-year top male modelling contract with Select Model Management, and snag a luxury trip for two to South Africa.
There are 1000s of entries from across Europe but (just for you) I have picked out 4 of the most outstanding contestants from England and I am giving you a brief opportunity to find out a bit about them during the course of the week... See the first Alistair Wardell below.
Alistair Wardell
1. Tell me a little bit about yourself, (your background, and your interests, anything you want the public to know)
Well, I was brought up predominantly in Harrogate in North Yorkshire, spending a few formative years in Scotland, before venturing to London to read Law at University College London (UCL). Upon graduating from UCL I went to work as an Investment Banker in the City for nearly two years, and despite the unpopularity of the industry at the moment, it was a fantastic opportunity to meet, learn and socialise with some incredibly intelligent and diverse characters.
I guess that my main interest would have to socialising, anybody who knows me certainly wouldn’t hesitate in vouching for my enjoyment of a good party, and any attempt at claiming a proper or noteworthy hobby would just be a fabrication having stopped playing Rugby seriously shortly after beginning University. Though as pastimes go drinking, dining and conversing with friends and good company, particularly in a City as vibrant as London, is hard to surpass.
Over the years I have also become fond of exercising. Having not always been quite so athletic, I think it really was working in the City and escaping to the gym to maintain sanity and focus that cemented my affinity with sweat.
2. What made you decide to enter the Calvin Klein competition?
In short, it was my brother. Several people have mentioned modelling to me in the past, but it was not until he brought the competition to my attention and suggested I enter that I gave it serious consideration. Coming out of working in the City, and looking for a change, coupled with my brother’s encouragement, made me think why not. I mean the competition offers a unique opportunity to experience something completely different, and really would provide the change in direction to my life that I have been searching for.
3. What artists would I find on your iPod right now?
Somewhat of an eclectic mix, including the new Bon Jovi album, The Script, David Guetta, Pavarotti and of course some old school Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack.
4. What makes you stand out from the crowd/ what makes you unique?
Probably my creativity and panache for innovative and different thinking. To be clichéd, my thinking out of the box approach to life. This comes out in my care free and free spirited, borderline reckless, approach to enjoying life.
5. If you could escape for a week to anywhere in the world where would it be?
Whitehaven beach, Whitsunday Island, Australia. Forming part of the protected Australian national park, Whitehaven beach on the uninhabited Whitsunday Island is accessible only by seaplane or boat, and for me, offers unparalleled escapism.
