Fremont Teen Wins National Mullet Championship

FREMONT, CA — Fremont's Mason Padilla has an enviable mullet. The hair style that peaked in popularity in the 1980s and early 90s has its own annual contest. Mason recently won first place in the teen division, for ages 13-17.

According to the Mullet Champ website, Mason received 3,800 votes for his locks. The victory came with a $1,000 cash prize, a GoPro camera, and a championship belt.

Mason, who turned 14 after the contest ended, told USA Today, "What started as something fun has now turned into just who I am — the kid with the curly mullet, I hope it inspires others to be brave in sticking to something they like and want to do no matter what others say or think."

Mason was a finalist in the kids division two years ago. When he didn't take home the top prize, he persisted.

The winner of the kids division this year is Kamden Cunningham of Pennsylvania.

Taking top prize in the adult category is Todd Grubb of Michigan.

All donations made to Mullet Champ go to Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors, a nonprofit foundation that provides mortgage-free accessible homes to critically wounded combat Veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.