From Diving Boards to Drag Runways: Meet Canada's New Drag Sensation

In the exciting world of "Canada’s Drag Race," a new queen is making waves by drawing on a unique background. Meet Hazel, a dynamic performer who once made a splash as an elite diver and is now ready to dive into the fierce competition of drag. Known for her athletic prowess and flamboyant persona, Hazel is set to captivate audiences with her charisma and talent.

In her introduction video for the show, Hazel confidently declared her intent to leverage her past as a diving champion and apply it to the drag race competition. She confidently exclaimed, "And send some b**ches home!" Standing tall and athletic, dressed as a circus ringmaster, Hazel is undeniably a force to be reckoned with.

The sixth season of "Canada’s Drag Race" is premiering this week, and Hazel is one of the fierce competitors vying for the coveted crown in Canada. But before Hazel became a drag sensation, she was known as Aidan Faminoff to Outsports readers. Eight years ago, Aidan shared his journey of coming out as gay in his late teens and how it positively impacted his diving career.

Aidan Faminoff has a rich history in diving, having won a medal for Team Canada at the 2015 Junior Pan Am Championships. His confidence soared after coming out, leading to further success, including a bronze medal at the national trials. During his freshman year at Florida State University, he publicly came out on National Coming Out Day, receiving overwhelming support from peers and the online community.

Reflecting on his journey, Aidan notes, "That story pretty much started it all for me. I hoped that any other person who could relate to my story — a queer athlete who had been hiding their whole life — could finally come out too and live authentically." His story resonated deeply within the LGBTQ+ sports community.

Now 27, Aidan is hosting a glamorous viewing party in Vancouver for the show’s premiere. It's a significant moment for Hazel, who will see her journey in the Werk Room and on the runway unfold for the first time. "It’s just crazy," Faminoff shares. "Four years ago, I wasn’t even doing this! Now I have the top show in Vancouver, and I’m booking people I’ve idolized. How is this real?"

His transformation from athlete to drag performer is a testament to his adaptability and athletic mindset. "You have to try to live in the moment," Aidan says, reflecting on his transition from diving to performing. "I’m having the best time. I guess I have to give myself a pat on the back sometimes."

A major influence in Aidan's life has been the support of his parents, especially his father. Once apprehensive about coming out to his dad, Aidan is now proud of their bond and his father’s acceptance. "He helped build my drag studio because I have so much stuff now, and he came to one of my biggest shows. It was amazing," he recounts.

As Hazel prepares to captivate audiences globally with new episodes available for streaming worldwide, she reflects on the impact of sports on her drag career. Her athletic background has equipped her with resilience and the ability to "roll with the punches," while her top strength remains her impressive lip-syncing skills.

Offering advice to his younger self, Aidan says, "Trust your gut instinct, and trust your feelings of who you want to be in this world, not what someone tells you to be. That will help to attract the right people around you. And if you get a no, that’s OK. It’s how you overcome that heartbreak and anxiety and propel yourself forward."

Hazel is ready to shine brightly on the drag stage, bringing her unique blend of athleticism and artistry to the world. There’s no stopping her now as she becomes one of the standout attractions on "Canada’s Drag Race."