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Hemingway Lookalike Contest semi-finalists acknowledge the audience at Sloppy Joe's Bar. Photo: Reuters

Hemingway lookalikes gather for annual contest at one of author’s favourite bars

About 160 stocky, white-bearded men resembling Ernest Hemingway have gathered in Florida to compete in the island city’s annual Hemingway Lookalike Contest.

The competition began Thursday evening at Sloppy Joe’s Bar, frequented by Hemingway when he lived in Key West during the 1930s.

Judged by former winners, the three-night contest is a highlight of the Hemingway Days festival honouring the late author’s literary prowess and colourful lifestyle.

Many competitors wear sportsman’s garb associated with Hemingway.

Past winners of the Hemingway Lookalike Contest. Photo: Reuters

Entrants include repeat contender Michael Groover of Savannah, Georgia, husband of celebrity chef Paula Deen. Deen cheered from the audience as her husband made the semi-final round set for Saturday evening.

The second preliminary round is scheduled for Friday evening. The 2017 lookalike winner will be chosen on Saturday night. The festival continues through until Sunday.

Jerry Jerele is congratulated by other Hemingway lookalike contestants after they were chosen to be semi-finalists at Sloppy Joe's Bar . Photo: Reuters
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