The World's Worst Irish Tenor Is Also Mr. Pat
ST. PAUL, Minn. (WCCO) -- He's not a great singer, actually he's considered the "world's worst Irish tenor."
Joe Bennett, owner of Bennett's Chop and Railhouse in St. Paul, got the title this week at the annual competition held at Mancini's Char House and Lounge.
"It was really stiff competition. There was a lot of phenomenal contestants up there," Bennett said. "The song I chose was 'Roll Out the Barrel.'"
Now he's got another title, Mr. Pat 2012. He's basically the king of the St. Patrick's Day Parade in St. Paul.
"I'm somewhat overwhelmed, I feel it's a huge honor," Bennett said. "There's only one Mr. Pat every year. You're the face of St. Patty's Day and I just feel as honored as I can."
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Bennett is a graduate of the University of Minnesota–Duluth. He now lives in Inver Grove Heights with his wife and six children.
According to the St. Patrick's Day Association, the newly crowned Miss Shamrock 2012 is Alissa Kurke.
The 2012 Grand Marshall will be Kieran Folliard, former restaurateur and owner of 2 Gingers Irish Whisky.
The 2012 Distinguished Irish Woman will be Monica Nilsson. She's also former Miss Shamrock Princess 1992.
