KEY WEST, Fla. - A cream-colored turtleneck sweater, ruddy complexion and white beard helped letter carrier Bob Doughty of Deerfield Beach, Fla., win Sloppy Joe's "Papa" Hemingway Look-Alike Contest in 2005. More than 125 prospective Papas are expected to vie for the 2006 title, with Doughty and approximately a dozen other former winners judging their "Ernest" efforts.

Each year, the annual look-alike challenge attracts a field of national and international entrants who dress in Hemingwayesque safari garb, wool fishermen's turtlenecks and other sporting attire in an attempt to emulate the Pulitzer and Nobel winner's "Papa" persona. Applauded by enthusiastic cheering sections, they parade onstage at Sloppy Joe's, 201 Duval St., Hemingway's favorite watering hole when he lived and wrote in Key West throughout the 1930s.

The quirky competition is a highlight of the island city's annual Hemingway Days celebration that honors the legendary author's literary achievements and larger-than-life legacy. Now in its 26th year, the 2006 festival is scheduled through Sunday, July 23.

Competitors return year after year for the look-alike revels, drawn by the lighthearted good spirit that typically characterizes the festival.

"The party keeps getting bigger, more and more supporters come, and the camaraderie is fantastic," said Doughty after his 2005 victory.

The proud "Papa" beat 146 other aspiring Ernests to win the title on his 13th attempt. He credited his victory to longevity, patience and support from fans who encouraged him to return.

Though he bears a great physical resemblance to one of America's most iconic authors, Doughty has never tried his hand at writing. He shares Hemingway's well-known passion for fishing and spending time in the Florida Keys.

Doughty and his fellow judges are to preside over the 2006 competition. They are to choose the newest "Papa" during a final round set for 7 p.m. Saturday, July 22.

Many "Papas" test their strength in another Sloppy Joe's event: an annual arm-wrestling challenge. The contest is set to begin with a 12:30 p.m. registration on Sunday, July 23. Prizes await winners in multiple categories.

For information about Sloppy Joe's "Papa" Hemingway Look-Alike Contest and other look-alike events, visit www.sloppyjoes.com . For a complete Hemingway Days schedule, visit www.hemingwaydays.net .

For lodging information in Key West, contact the Key West Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-LAST-KEY (800-527-8539), or explore this Web site.