By Patrick Bertoletti, hailing from Chicago, claimed victory at the annual Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July hot dog eating contest by devouring 58 hot dogs in a thrilling competition on Thursday. The 39-year-old secured his first men’s title in a fiercely contested 10-minute race against 13 competitors from around the globe at Coney Island, New York.
The absence of Joey “Jaws” Chestnut, the reigning champion who opted out due to a sponsorship dispute, opened the door for Bertoletti’s triumph. Reflecting on his win, Bertoletti expressed determination, stating, “I wasn’t going to stop eating until the job was done.” His performance surpassed his previous record of 55 hot dogs, showcasing his preparation and dedication for this year’s event.
Bertoletti, who shed weight and rigorously trained for three months, seized the opportunity with Chestnut absent. “With Joey not here, I knew I had a shot,” he remarked, crediting his unexpected achievement to newfound resolve.
Earlier in the day, Miki Sudo of Florida secured her 10th title in the women’s division by consuming a record-breaking 51 hot dogs. Sudo, a 38-year-old dental hygiene student, celebrated her victory and remarked on her satisfaction in retaining the prestigious pink belt for another year.
The event drew thousands of enthusiastic fans, donning foam hot dog hats, to witness the spectacle at Coney Island. Despite Chestnut’s absence, CEO of Major League Eating, Rich Shea, noted the enduring appeal of the contest, emphasizing the significant turnout and festive atmosphere.
Competitors from diverse backgrounds and continents gathered for the event, underscoring its global allure and competitive spirit. Participants hailed from states across the U.S. and countries spanning Brazil, Japan, the United Kingdom, South Korea, Australia, and the Czech Republic, all vying for the coveted title and a $10,000 prize.
Joey Chestnut, known for his record-breaking feats, including consuming 76 hot dogs in 10 minutes in 2021, chose to spend the day at Fort Bliss army base in El Paso, competing against soldiers in an exhibition match. This decision followed a dispute with event organizers over sponsorship, highlighting the broader impact and attention surrounding the annual contest.
Despite the controversy, Nathan’s Famous hot dog eating contest remains a celebrated tradition, drawing both participants and spectators alike in a display of competitive eating prowess and summer revelry.
AP
