By Cindy Peterson
8-Year-Old Ocala Boy Finishes Top 5 in National Mullet Contest
An 8-year-old from Ocala, Jack Kuentjes, has raised more than $10,500 for wounded veterans while competing in the 2024 Mullet Championship, where he secured a spot in the top five. Despite missing out on the title of “Best Mullet” in the U.S., Jack’s’ efforts have had a significant impact, with his mullet, known as the “Marion County Masterpiece,” becoming a highlight of the competition.
Jack received 790 votes and 124 points from the judges, placing him fifth in the kids division of the contest, which was broadcast live on the Pat McAfee Show. His impressive fundraising total of $10,571.92 for Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors (JAH4WW) ranked as the second-highest in his category. This organization provides customized, mortgage-free homes for U.S. military veterans who have sustained severe injuries.
Kamden Cunningham, a 6-year-old from Swoyersville, Pennsylvania, won first place in the kids division, with 2,255 votes, a score of 124 from the judges, and $6,563.88 raised in donations.
Jack’s journey began in July when his mullet was chosen from hundreds of entries as one of the top 100 in the competition. It was later voted into the top 25 earlier this month. The kids division featured three age groups: Lil’ Nuggets (0-4 years), Mid Mullets (5-7 years), and Big Kids (8-12 years).
The young contestant’s mullet, which he started growing three years ago after his dad adopted the same style, has become more than just a haircut. Nicknamed the “Marion County Masterpiece,” it has remained through multiple school years and even brain surgery, becoming a symbol of resilience and personality for Jack.
For the full list of finalists and more details on supporting the cause, visit the USA Mullet Championships website.
About Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors: Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors is a nonprofit dedicated to building and donating accessible, mortgage-free homes to U.S. veterans wounded in combat. All funds raised through the 2024 Mullet Championship go directly to support their mission.
Photos provided by www.mulletchamp.com.
Originally from the small town of Berryville, Arkansas, Cindy has become a multimedia specialist in journalism, photography, videography, and video editing. She has a B.S. in Communications from the University of Central Arkansas and produces Style Magazine's Sports Hub Podcast and the Healthy Living Podcast. She also produces for Beacon College’s Telly Award-winning PBS show, “A World of Difference.” When she isn’t working, Cindy loves traveling the National Parks with her husband , Ryan, and son, David, photographing wildlife.
