WESTBURY, BY
Nathan’s Famous will kick off the official 2015 qualifying tour for the annual Fourth of July International Hot Dog-Eating Contest in Brooklyn, Michigan. The event will take place at Michigan International Speedway on August 17.
This will be the first of more than a dozen contests that will be held in cities across the U.S. prior to the contest on July 4. It will take place at 10 am before the Pure Michigan 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Race, according to a press release.
"The annual hot dog-eating contest circuit is synonymous with summer and all the enjoyment it brings," said Wayne Norbitz, President and COO of Nathan's Famous. "Nathan's Famous is proud to be part of the American summer, and we look forward to a great contest in Michigan."
The top male and top female finishers at the contest will earn a spot in the finals at the original Nathan’s Famous in Brooklyn, NY. It is estimated that 35,000 fans watch the July 4th contest live, and ESPN telecasts the event with millions of viewers tuning in.
World pork rind and watermelon-eating champion Buffalo Jim Reeves and Nicole Rodriquez, a fast-rising star in the eating community, will be competing at this first qualifier, according to a press release.
Currently, Joey Chestnut of San Jose, CA holds the world record for eating 69 Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs and Buns in 10 minutes. Sonya Thomas of Alexandria, VA set the record for females with 45 Hot Dogs and Buns in 10 minutes.
The Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest has occurred each July 4th in Coney Island, NY since 1916. Major League Eating sanctions the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Circuit and ensures the contests are judged professionally and that safety standards are in place.
Individuals interested in competing in the qualifier should click here to obtain information and register. All competitors must be over 18 years of age.
