Dickster's Random Thoughts: Joey Chestnut Breaks Record

Sunday, July 5, 2009

Joey Chestnut Breaks Record

Image by graciepoo via Flickr

In addition to all of the cookouts, parades, and fireworks displays, the 4th of July is also the day of annual Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest. The event held every year on Coney Island could be considered the Super Bowl of the competitive eating world. The goal is to eat as many hot dogs and buns you can eat in 10 minutes as contestants vie for the coveted Mustard Belt.

The contest figured to be battle between six time champion Takeru Kobayashi of Japan and two time defending champ Joey Chestnut of the good ole USA. Kobayashi first won the contest in 2001 when he set a record consuming 50 hot dogs in 10 minutes. Chestnut first entered the contest in 2006 and gave Kobayashi a run for his money by eating 52 dogs. Kobayashi edge him out for the crown by eating 53 3/4 dogs, a new record.

2007 marked the end of Kobayashi's reign as top dog. Chestnut inhaled 66 dogs to Kobayashi's 63 to win the event. 2008 was the closest battle between the two rivals as the main event ended in a tie with both men eating 59 dogs. Chestnut won the "eat off" by finishing 5 hot dogs before Kobayashi. This year, Chestnut easily defeated Kobayashi setting a new record of 68 dogs to Kobayashi's 64.

Personally, I can't imagine eating 68 hot dogs in a month, much less in 1o minutes. Here for your viewing pleasure is part of yesterday's contest. Remember, these guys are professionals. Don't try this at home.