The Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest took place without its main star, Joey Chestnut. The competitive eating champion had to miss the event due to a sponsorship issue with a plant-based hot dog company. This absence paved the way for Miki Sudo to shine in the women’s competition.
Miki Sudo, a dental hygienist in training and a familiar face in the competitive eating world, took center stage and set a new women’s world record by consuming a staggering 51 hot dogs and buns in just 10 minutes. This victory marked her 10th win in the competition, making her a dominant force in the event. Sudo expressed her joy at claiming her 10th Pink Belt, emphasizing her dedication to the sport.
Since the addition of a women’s division in 2011, Miki Sudo has been a dominant force, winning 10 out of the 14 competitions. With this latest victory, she solidified her position as the second-winningest Nathan’s champion, following closely behind Joey Chestnut. Sudo’s impressive performance this year, surpassing the 50 hot dog mark for the first time, signals that she is far from done and has more to offer in the future.
In the men’s competition, with Chestnut absent, the field was wide open for contenders. Patrick Bertoletti emerged victorious, devouring 58 hot dogs and buns in the 10-minute challenge. Bertoletti’s win was closely contested, with Geoffrey Esper finishing in a close second with 53 hot dogs.
Reflecting on his win, Bertoletti expressed his determination to seize the opportunity in Chestnut’s absence. The odds for the men’s competition were significantly different without Chestnut’s participation, highlighting the impact of his absence on the betting landscape.
Notably, Miki Sudo’s husband, Nick Wehry, also participated in the men’s event, taking an early lead before finishing third with 46 hot dogs. The event showcased the competitive spirit and dedication of the contestants, despite the absence of the reigning champion.
Overall, the 2024 Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest was a thrilling spectacle, with new records set and unexpected victories achieved. As the competition continues to evolve, fans can expect more exciting performances and fierce rivalries in the years to come.