One of the eight contestants, Lars Eklund will be portraying Leif Erikson, the explorer who was the first European to reach North America. His dance partner is Sarah Hall, and his escort is Alyse Montgomery. His manager is Clay Buckman.

“I wanted to be Leif Erikson because I am Swedish, so I really admire his Scandinavian heritage. I like his sense of adventure and fearlessness,” said Eklund.

Eklund is excited to watch everyone else’s talents and is ready to embarrass himself in front of the audience. His talent will be done with the help of Jeremy Carter.

“It was an impulse decision to do Mr. Linganore. I signed up two days after the deadline. I have several friends doing it and I always had a good time watching the previous shows,” said Eklund.

A multi-sport athlete, Eklund is a member of the varsity soccer team, indoor track team and outdoor track team.

“I am a member of the 2018 3A state champion indoor track team. At states, I got second in the 4×400, fifth in high jump and fifth in the 4×800,” said Eklund.

Eklund is a member of Rho Kappa, Mu Alpha Theta, and the Science National Honor Society. During the summer, he works as a lifeguard at Ridge Swim Club.

After high school, Eklund hopes to attend Purdue University or University of Maryland to pursue mechanical engineering. He is completing Project Lead the Way this semester.

“I think that I will win Mr. Linganore because I’m the best looking contestant and the tallest contestant,” said Eklund.