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December 08.2025
3 Minutes Read

How an 81-Year-Old Octogenarian Captivated Hearts at Rikki's Pie-Eating Contest

Elderly woman in colorful outfit smiling with pie at a contest

A Celebration of Community and Joy

In a heartwarming tribute to Lesbian Visibility Week, Rikki’s sports bar in San Francisco’s Castro District recently hosted a vibrant pie-eating contest that captured the essence of community spirit and joyous celebration. Local residents gathered not just to partake in the deliciousness of pies but to uplift one another in an authentically inclusive space, proudly supported by the Curve Foundation.

Octogenarian Winner Steals the Show

While the contest officially celebrated Jenn for her lightning-fast pie-eating prowess, it was 81-year-old Babs Daitch who truly melted hearts and earned the title for “best technique.” Daitch’s approach to pie consumption, celebrated through a mix of finesse and playful delight, struck a chord with the audience. She noted her passion for savoring every morsel, stating with infectious enthusiasm, “I took my time savoring every morsel of crust hidden beneath those sweet hills and valleys.” A moment that exemplified her zest for life, Daitch also showcased her technique in a joyful video that has captured the attention of many in the community.

Highlighting the LGBTQ+ Narrative

The event was more than just a contest; it was a memorable gathering that reaffirmed the importance of representation and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community. As the inaugural pie-eating event at Rikki’s, which is recognized as a significant venue for women and non-binary patrons, the atmosphere overflowed with laughter, camaraderie, and unabashed celebration. The Curve Foundation’s involvement further amplified the occasion, turning it into a fundraiser that successfully raised almost $2,000 for future initiatives, setting the stage for annual celebrations of visibility and inclusion.

Babs Daitch: A Life Worth Celebrating

Daitch's charm is not confined to the pie-eating contest. She is a force of nature, widely recognized for her vibrant personality and adventurous lifestyle. She recently starred in the acclaimed short documentary Thanks, Babs!, which earned accolades for highlighting her exhilarating journey through life. With a cheeky self-description as “the lesbian Forrest Gump,” she resonates with audiences as a symbol of resilience and tenacity. Her continued enthusiasm for life demonstrates that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing dreams and making a lasting impact.

The Importance of Visibility and Community Engagement

Events like the pie-eating contest at Rikki’s serve a vital role in fostering connections within the LGBTQ+ community. They offer a platform that elevates voices often marginalized in mainstream culture. By putting lesbians and non-binary individuals at the forefront, such gatherings encourage shared experiences and a collective spirit that empowers participants.

Fun-fueled Events: A Local Preference

Rikki’s exemplifies a trend emerging in the Bay Area—venues that promote culture and community. By organizing engaging events like pie-eating contests, local establishments allow individuals to come together, share stories, and create memories that enrich their urban lives. This sense of belonging, especially for lifestyle-conscious adults, is what makes such occasions a staple of community bonding.

Looking Ahead: The Future for Babs

As for Babs Daitch, she exhibits no signs of slowing down. With aspirations to star in ads and even produce a sequel to her documentary, she embodies the mantra that life should continuously be about adventure, creativity, and connections. “I need to monetize this – I’m an entrepreneur! I’m not planning to slow down and ‘be an old lady,’” she asserts, inspiring others to dive into their own excitements and opportunities regardless of age. Her playful spirit reminds us that the best is always yet to come.

Join the Celebration of Community

As events like Rikki’s pie-eating contest unfold, they not only entertain but enrich the community’s ties, allowing individuals to take part in shared joy and laughter. Through such initiatives, the spirit of unity underlines the significance of visibility in activism, and the ripple effect can lead to a greater appreciation for diversity. Join in future events or initiatives that celebrate inclusiveness and the remarkable stories within your community—after all, everyone has a special pie-eating technique waiting to be shared!

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Explore and Help Track California's Monarch Butterflies This Winter

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12.24.2025

California's Court Decision on Gender Identity: What Parents Need to Know

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Christmas Day 2025: What Stores Are Open and Closed in the Bay Area?

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