With Movember over, area girlfriends are probably rejoicing in the mass-shaving which was bound to happen in the valley's bathrooms.
The Royal Tyrrell Moustaches of Palaeontology’s 11 participants managed to garner $2,300 to go towards the Prostate Cancer Canada organization to fund prostate cancer research.
“It’s a fun way to raise money for a good cause and look good while doing it,” says Dan Spivak, head of the Resource Management Program at the Tyrrell.
The Moustaches of Palaeontology had strong inspiration within the museum: Joseph Burr Tyrrell, of which the museum is named, had a mean moustache which has gained nearly legendary status among the mo bros working there. Executive Director Andy Neuman has sported one for years, as well as palaeontologist Don Brinkman.
The bronze bust of Joseph Tyrrell’s head in the museum entrance is stuck in a perpetual Movember and has inspired the 11 mo-bros on a daily basis.
“He’s got a very nice one,” says Neuman.
“There’s some good moustaches here on a permanent basis. Andy Neuman has been our spiritual leader, he’s someone we’ve all aspired to have moustaches like,” laughed Spivak.
“Perry Shoff, our carpenter, probably has the most well manicured moustache I’ve seen.”
“I’ve had one for so long I’m not eligible, because I’d have to shave it off and regrow it,” says Neuman, “I’m not sure I’m brave enough to see myself without one.”
The manly staches didn’t live long past their shelf-life, “I shaved mine as soon as I got out of bed this morning,” said Spivak on December 1. “Some of the others had ‘mo’ commitments, but theirs will be gone soon too.”
Spivak adds that it’s not just about raising money for prostate cancer research, it allows the guys to bond over the course of the month with friendly competition and sharing tips and tricks for getting that perfect handlebar or Fu Manchu shape.
Tim Smith won the best moustache as judged by colleagues, and received a $50 prize to be donated along with his existing pledges.
The idea for Movember formed in 2003 in Melbourne, Australia and soon went global as a humourous and handsome way to promote and fund prostate cancer research.
Canada has become the second biggest Movember country behind Australia, in 2009, 35,156 Mo Bros and Mo Sistas raised $7.8 million for Prostate Cancer Canada.
