Bronies: Men Who Like "My Little Pony"

CINCINNATI -- What has to be one of the most colorful and unusual conventions ever to hit Cincinnati is underway. It's called Cutie Mark Con. We'll explain why.The people attending are fans of the cartoon My Little Pony.And as our sister station's Local 12 News Reporter Jeff Hirsh found out, most of them are men ... who call themselves Bronies.The producers of the cartoon series My Little Pony aimed their show at 8 year-old girls. But they hit somebody else as well.Nanashi Tanaka, Organizer: I could see where people could see it strange for adult males to enjoy a show meant for little girls.Welcome to Cutie Mark Con ... a convention for for those who follow My Little Pony, Friendship is Magic.While some women show up ... they're called Pegasisters ... it's mostly men ... bros ... hence Bronies.Brent Filipkowski, Organizer: It's from the fans, actually. They named it themselves. It's all about friendship. They're fans of the show.So, when I was a kid, I was really into Rocky and Bullwinkle. Even as an adult, I think it's one of the greatest tv shows ever made, brilliant political satire. But I gotta tell ya, I never went to a convention, never became a Brocky or a Browinkle, never dressed up as flying squirrel or a moose.So, really, what's behind this. Well, the Bronies follow the 2010 version ... not the old 1980's original, which they say was just a half-hour commercial for a toy. The newer show, they say, has quality animation and interesting characters which men, not just little girls can enjoy. There are souvenirs, games, a chance to meet voice talent, and even a choreographed pony costumed wrestling match.Jason Taylor, Organizer: I'm sorin from My Little Pony, who's a high flying super energetic pony who likes to go fast, that's the persona I'm giving it. We've got others doing the other ponies as well.As for the term Cutie Mark ... each pony has a mark which indicates its mission in life, or values. Organizers expect 1,500 people. 50 dollars for the weekend, 25 dollars a day. If you're intrigued ... brony up.It's my calling. That's why I'm doing this.Cutie Mark Con is at the Crowne Plaza Cincinnati North and Coco Key Water Resort in Sharonville, now through Sunday. Courtesy of our sister station.