Charlestown's Ryan Bate....He won!

For the Second Year Running, a Rhode Islander Wins PETA's Contest

By  Shakira Croce

 

Providence, R.I. — Rhode Island native Ryan Bate wears many hats: He's the owner and director of a women's-only boot camp, a fitness expert and trainer, and, now, PETA's Sexiest Vegan Next Door. Beating out hundreds of contestants from across the country, including nine other hot male finalists, Bate will enjoy a free vacation for two to Maui, Hawaii, courtesy of HumaneTrip.com.

"Not only is Ryan fit and gorgeous, he's also the kind of guy who rescues strays and puts indoor insects safely back outside," says PETA Special Projects Manager Alicia Woempner. "He leads by example through his energy, compassion, and zest for life."

Bate was born in West Warwick and grew up in West Greenwich. Currently residing in Charlestown with his wife, Danielle, who is also vegan, Bate made the switch to a plant-based diet after watching PETA's video "Meet Your Meat" and says he's never looked back. 

He considers going vegan the "most fulfilling and rewarding decision" he's ever made, and he sports two tattoos that are testaments to his beliefs. One is a quotation attributed to Albert Schweitzer: "Until we extend our circle of compassion to all living things, humanity will not find peace." The other is of a gorilla—a strong, noble, vegetarian animal.

This is the second year in a row that a Rhode Island contestant has edged out the competition by proving that dropping meat and dairy products can help people enjoy a sexier, healthier body. Winners were selected based on several factors, including vote count. See the full contest details here.

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