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Semi-finalists compete for Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest
They came to put their appetites to the test, but as Lori Chung reports, only one can advance to compete in Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest in Coney Island.
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FISHKILL, N.Y. -- One by one, a dozen semi-finalists take the stage at Splashdown Beach, ready to scarf down as many hot dogs as they can. On the line is the chance to compete in Nathans Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest on the Fourth of July, broadcast live on ESPN.
"The winner here today advances to the Coney Island contest, said Richard Shea, Major League Eating President, "Surf and Stillwell, the site of the original Nathan's Famous."
The competitors faced a ten minute time limit but it's not just about shoving hot dogs in your mouth as fast as you can. Believe it or not there's actually some technique involved.
"I use a double batch of Kool-Aid that makes it sweeter" said Micah Collins, "I take the bun, I put it in my hand and I dunk it."
When the buzzer sounded, the trophy went to Juliet Lee. The crowd's favorite didn't disappoint.
"I just try to eat as fast as possible" said Lee.
But for some, it may be awhile before they pick up another hot dog.
"It's nauseating, just the thought of putting another one in my mouth other than for a contest, I'll never do it, barbecues nothing I'm ruined" said Larelle Marie Mele.
Lee ate 28 hot dogs in ten minutes to advance, but she may have to improve that number for the big contest.
"The world record is 68 in ten minutes" said Shea.