Due to the unhalting progression of our nation’s waistline, it’s only a matter of time before we crown a new national sport. Despite Michelle Obama’s best efforts, it seems that the men and women of our society are becoming more and more prone to bouts with obesity.

So who can put a positive spin on this dollar-menu dilemma?

Enter Joey Chestnut, the baby-faced poster boy for one of the fastest growing “sports” in the world: Major League Eating.

Born Joseph Christian Chestnut on November 25, 1983 in Vallejo, California, Joey “Jaws” burst onto the global stage after his stunning defeat of the world-renowned hotdog king Takeru Kobayashi. While the two had competed several times before, this time it was Chestnut who would take home the gold. It all went down on July 4, 2007 at Coney Island’s annual hot dog eating contest. Chestnut consumed a record-setting 66 hotdogs with buns, besting the Japanese legend’s total of 63.

Only a few months later, Jaws managed to stomach 103 Krystal hamburgers while competing in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It took him only eight minutes. Again, a new world record.

But one can’t live on hotdogs and hamburgers alone. A balanced diet is required to maintain both physical and mental health. With that in mind, take a look at some of the other records held by this amazing eater.

(Bold indicates a world record)

Macaroni and Cheese: 10.5 pounds in seven minutes.
Pizza: 45 slices
Chicken Wings: 241 in 30 minutes
Matzo balls: 78
Gyoza: 231
Steak: 4.5 pounds with sides in 8 minutes, 52 seconds
Pork ribs: 9.8 pounds in 12 minutes
Asparagus: 8.6 pounds

One of his most notable accomplishments, however, has to be his appearance on TV’s Man Vs. Food. On the program, Chestnut devoured a 5-pound, 17-inch burrito in just over three minutes.

So kids, take a lesson from Joey Chestnut. Don’t feel guilty about being hungry! That extra trip to the buffet (and a little exercise) could put you on the path to international stardom.

- Taylor Maxwell

Popularity: 1% [?]

Tags | food eating records, hot dog eating champion, Joey Chestnut