2011 Nathan’s qualifier circuit announced
This year’s Nathan’s qualifier circuit has been released:
- April 23, Las Vegas, NV
- May 14, Newnan (Atlanta area), GA
- May 18, Beijing, China
- May 21, Foxboro (Boston area), MA
- May 28, Atlantic City, NJ
- June 2, Cleveland, OH
- June 4, Queens, NY
- June 8, Pittsburgh, PA
- June 11, Tempe (Phoenix area), AZ
- June 12, Hawthorne (Los Angeles County), CA
- June 18, Calgary, Canada
- June 18, Charlotte, NC
- June 25, Fishkill, NY
Registration will open tomorrow at 2 pm eastern.
New cities: Beijing, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Hawthorne, CA & Calgary
2010 cities dropped: Hartford, Norfolk, Escondido, CA, San Jose
As in the initial 2010 circuit, there are no United States qualfiers between Tempe, AZ and Newnan, GA. (Cleveland is east of Atlanta)
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Mid-West Eater said
March 29, 2011 @ 11:54 am
Seems like they are trying to completely phase out the mid west eaters from Nathans… Can’t believe that there is not a qualifier between Georgia and Arizona. I’m looking at at least a 10 1/2 hour drive to the nearest qualifier and plane tickets are already sky high for all of the announced locations. Well looks like I will be waiting yet again until the circuit is announced next year.
SPBBBBMBBB said
March 29, 2011 @ 12:02 pm
wow! I guess Newnan will be crowded this year..prepare for the heat…last two years in a row it was over 93 degrees in the blazing sun.
Anonymous said
March 29, 2011 @ 12:23 pm
Well, well, well…can we revisit all of that Rookie of the Year talk from the other week? As I said, it’s going to be a very hard road for those guys.
nunonabun2 said (Registered November 10, 2009)
March 29, 2011 @ 12:28 pm
The heat makes it fun. It was not too bad last year at least there was a cloud or two. I got the green light for Gyros though. It is the after in Houston though. Nice 800 mile over night drive to try and get both in.
Anonymous said
March 29, 2011 @ 12:33 pm
An Ohio qualifier? Scott Bickel, this is fate.
Anonymous said
March 29, 2011 @ 1:20 pm
I feel the next Eat Feats Poll should be: WHERE WILL U.S. MALE ATTEMPT HIS NATHAN’S QUALIFIER?
Anonymous said
March 29, 2011 @ 1:39 pm
A qualifier in Calgary? Ken “The Demolisher” Wong, this is fate.
Gastroboy said
March 29, 2011 @ 1:41 pm
Glad to see international qualifiers back, sad at the same time becuase they don’t hold one in Europe (I was counting on London there at least :S). Hope they actually hold those in Beijing and Calgary though.
Rhonda Evans said (Registered March 6, 2008)
March 29, 2011 @ 2:22 pm
I’d like to see Ken Wong win a qualifier.
stephanie_wu said (Registered August 17, 2010)
March 29, 2011 @ 2:46 pm
I’m stunned they eliminated two west coast qualifiers from last year: Escondido, Ca and San Jose, CA. Does IFOCE not realize how many people live in California, especially northern California, and how far it is for them to travel to Las Vegas, Tempe, or LA??
What is IFOCE’s motivation for this??
Anonymous said
March 29, 2011 @ 2:57 pm
Hopefully Pat qualifies in Cleveland so we don’t have to hear any of this Scott Bickel and fate crap. I hope some top ten pro signs up there and makes him eat his humble pie
Rhonda Evans said (Registered March 6, 2008)
March 29, 2011 @ 3:17 pm
The motivation for any business is $ / cost, regardless of the rhetoric used.
Please!!! said
March 29, 2011 @ 3:37 pm
Please someone in the top ten do the qualifier in Cleveland so we can stop with the Scott Bickel and fate comments.
A. Nonymous said
March 29, 2011 @ 3:38 pm
Other than four locations at San Jose State, Hawthorne, Escondido, and San Diego, there are few California Nathan’s outlets (and none in the North), so why should they have a contest there? Be glad you had multiple contests in CA in years past. Same thing with the Midwest – other than Tempe, and Vegas – you have to travel pretty far to find another one. Like Michigan or Kentucky.
http://nathansfamous.com/PageFetch/getpage.php?pgid=41&address=sacramento%2C+ca
The Expert said
March 29, 2011 @ 3:46 pm
2011 Nathan’s Qualifier Winners
Vegas: Monson
GA: Hunt
Foxboro: Davekos or Gordon (Rumors will swirl that Janus is doing this qualifier in order to keep people away and give Davekos a pass.)
Atlantic City: Shoudt
Cleveland: Bertoletti
Queens: Janus
Pittsburgh: Juliet Lee
Tempe: Gravy or Denmark
LA: Gravy or Denmark
Charlotte: Sonya
Fishkill: Booker
nunonabun2 said (Registered November 10, 2009)
March 29, 2011 @ 3:47 pm
San Fran to LA is what six hours, vegas is 10 or so right? Make a trip out of a weekend in Vegas or sunny Atlanta on a cheap flight.
Seriously? said
March 29, 2011 @ 4:03 pm
Stunned? Welcome to the real world of professional competitive eating. Any idea how many thousands of miles the top eaters (and others) log each year playing this game?
Anonymous said
March 29, 2011 @ 4:12 pm
I give up, Stephanie. How many people live in California?
A. Nonymous said
March 29, 2011 @ 4:22 pm
And, Stephanie, it’s not IFOCE’s motivation, it’s the SPONSOR’S, Nathan’s, motivation.
Anonymous said
March 29, 2011 @ 4:40 pm
The Nathan’s qualifying schedule has been announced, and therefore we know that the time is nigh for Beautiful Brian to recount thousand-times-already-told stories of near misses and heartbreaking losses to ringers like Dave Kondick, Sonny Manzi, and Dom Cardo.
Ben Do said
March 29, 2011 @ 4:49 pm
An article from 2008 said Ken Wong ate 9.5-10 hot dogs…while his closest competition (2nd place) only ate 6.5. Don’t you have to eat at least 20 to qualify for Nathan’s? I’m new to how Nathan’s works.
Any other big names for the Calgary qualifier?
U.S. MALE said (Registered December 28, 2007)
March 29, 2011 @ 4:53 pm
How great is it that I don’t have to eat one more stinkin nasty Nathans Hot Dog!
I cannot wait to see where Big Brian Subich’s map of qualifiers takes him.
Hilarious said
March 29, 2011 @ 5:13 pm
Bertoletti will beat Dickel, oh pardon my typo, Bickel so bad that the only people more embarrassed than Bickel will be the reporters that actually bought into his crap filled claims of having any talent at eating.
Anonymous said
March 29, 2011 @ 5:19 pm
Is there a wild card spot this year. My guess is either Davekos, Shredder or Flash is they don’t get lucky or get a pass. No offense, just my opinion.
Anonymous said
March 29, 2011 @ 5:20 pm
What about Crazy Legz???
Cutter said (Registered November 9, 2010)
March 29, 2011 @ 5:23 pm
MLE has the midwest covered with isle of capri being a major sponsor. This coastal pattern sounds like a good idea.
Spycam said
March 29, 2011 @ 5:43 pm
How will the MLE work Crazy Legs (or Lazy Legs) into the Coney Island Final? Will we see a low key qualifier pop up just for him or will he go to China to qualify against nobody.
Anonymous said
March 29, 2011 @ 5:44 pm
without Kobi to press Joey, Nathans is dead and boring, same old eater’s, same old story, sorry but that’s just how it is. I’m not even watching it this year. Like the rest of the world I already know who is going to win.
Cutter said (Registered November 9, 2010)
March 29, 2011 @ 5:45 pm
I have a couple questions about qualifiers.
Are these 10 or 12 minute qualifiers?
How many spots do they have at the table in a qualifier?
Nathan in Cali said
March 29, 2011 @ 5:46 pm
Steph,
I’m not surprised the Northern Cali and Escondido venues were dropped. I believe San Jose’s qualifier has always been unorganized, one year I believe they didn’t even have buns and somebody had to go buy a bunch. Last year he controversy in San Jose with Lazy Legs and the glove getting like a 6 HDB deduction, then the fiasco about Brian Beard only eating 18 when you needed 20 to qualify. It was more then enough for Nathan’s reps to finally do away with that qualifier.
If you can’t figure out why Escondido was taken off then you haven’t really followed competitive eating closely in the last 10 months at all.
As for Calgary, Ben I wouldn’t get to excited about an easy win, a lot of people showed for the poutine contest, and with the qualifier in China there are going to be a lot of good eaters looking to qualify in an area where there isn’t already a lock (Calgary being one of those places)…
It’s going to be interesting this year for sure and put me on the list of those who really hopes Deep Dish goes and takes about out of Scott Bickel in Cleveland… I sure hope somebody contacts Bickle to let him know when to log on and sign up and how exactly Nathan’s works because I’m not so sure he or those around him are aware.
stephanie_wu said (Registered August 17, 2010)
March 29, 2011 @ 6:17 pm
And, Stephanie, it’s not IFOCE’s motivation, it’s the SPONSOR’S, Nathan’s, motivation.
Well maybe, but that just goes to show you what is wrong with IFOCE/MLE. This event is supposed to be one of the four majors, just like men’s golf has the Masters, US Open, British Open (“The Open”), and the PGA Championship. Or at least this is what I heard one of the Shea brothers spewing off a few years ago. So if Nathan’s on July 4 is supposed to be a national tournament or even national championship of competitive eating, then they have an obligation to hold qualifiers where the people are, if they want a truly representative field on July 4, not just where Nathan’s prefers. It’s about the integrity of the sport, not sucking up to a sponsor.
Other than four locations at San Jose State, Hawthorne, Escondido, and San Diego, there are few California Nathan’s outlets (and none in the North), so why should they have a contest there? Be glad you had multiple contests in CA in years past. Same thing with the Midwest – other than Tempe, and Vegas – you have to travel pretty far to find another one. Like Michigan or Kentucky.
San Jose, as part of the San Francisco Bay Area, is in northern California, by most people’s definition. I agree people in the central part of the US have even a bigger travel burden.
Nathan’s doesn’t need to host any qualifier–that is between them and IFOCE/MLE. IFOCE/MLE can arrange for the shipping and cooking of Nathan’s products at various sites throughout the country, regardless if there is a Nathan’s there or not. But my point from above still applies: this is a national contest, so let’s make it truly national by getting the best eaters from all over the US, not just certain areas.
Anonymous said
March 29, 2011 @ 6:23 pm
U.S. Male, you never ate too many as it was.
nunonabun2 said (Registered November 10, 2009)
March 29, 2011 @ 6:27 pm
integrity of the sport, not sucking up to a sponsor….. I am not trying to be a jerk but is that a serious statement?
stephanie_wu said (Registered August 17, 2010)
March 29, 2011 @ 6:27 pm
I’m not surprised the Northern Cali and Escondido venues were dropped. I believe San Jose’s qualifier has always been unorganized, one year I believe they didn’t even have buns and somebody had to go buy a bunch. Last year he controversy in San Jose with Lazy Legs and the glove getting like a 6 HDB deduction, then the fiasco about Brian Beard only eating 18 when you needed 20 to qualify. It was more then enough for Nathan’s reps to finally do away with that qualifier.
If you can’t figure out why Escondido was taken off then you haven’t really followed competitive eating closely in the last 10 months at all.
Thanks.
I am aware of what happened in with Crazy Legs last year; that was actually in Escondido, not San Jose. But to eliminate a contest location due to the behavior of one of the participants seems harsh, as well as illogical. Better to ban the contestant than cancel an entire contest. Maybe BB only ate 18 HDB, but tht doesn’t mean California is lacking for good eaters.We have a ton of good eaters, many of whom are not members of MLE, who can put up some very good numbers, well over 18 HDB (Goose did 30+ last year to beat Pete, IIRC). The qualifiers are not all about setting up current MLE eaters, but also about finding new talent.
stephanie_wu said (Registered August 17, 2010)
March 29, 2011 @ 6:28 pm
integrity of the sport, not sucking up to a sponsor….. I am not trying to be a jerk but is that a serious statement?
Well, call me an idealist perhaps, but that is how I feel.
Anonymous said
March 29, 2011 @ 6:35 pm
US Male, there’s no way you got sick of the taste of Nathans hot dogs cause you hardly ate any during the contest anyways.
stephanie_wu said (Registered August 17, 2010)
March 29, 2011 @ 6:38 pm
As in the initial 2010 circuit, there are no United States qualfiers between Tempe, AZ and Newnan, GA. (Cleveland is east of Atlanta)
Thank you OJ. Many people would think Atlanta would be farther east than Cleveland, due to Georgia bordering the Atlantic Ocean, and Ohio being well inland. If you had asked me, I probably would have thought so too.
It’s this kind of detail and accuracy that I admire about you and your site so much.
nunonabun2 said (Registered November 10, 2009)
March 29, 2011 @ 6:39 pm
I like the ideal of something wtih larger coverage but it just isnt going to happen any time soon. Contests come and go because of sponsers. Johnsville Brats, Glutton Bowl, Krystal ect…. I mean they are the fuel that feeds the machine after all, money. I love going on a road trip myself and doing a contest. Make a trip out of the whole thing and have some fun. Get a CE buddy to go wtih and share the time on the road. How can you beat a trip to Vegas?
nunonabun2 said (Registered November 10, 2009)
March 29, 2011 @ 6:47 pm
Newnan GA is like thiriy miles east from the Atlanta airport and four from downtown. It does seem like there would be a qualifier some place in Texas.
Anonymous said
March 29, 2011 @ 6:48 pm
Killer Kuhns in the ” Burg “
stephanie_wu said (Registered August 17, 2010)
March 29, 2011 @ 7:38 pm
I agree nunonabun2. I guess IFOCE is able to survive solely due to its sponsors, unfortunate as that is. I wonder if competitive eating is doomed as a fringe sport forever, along with the likes of pool, chess, table soccer, video games, etc.
NReda said
March 29, 2011 @ 8:20 pm
If IFOCE is interested in finding new talent, they have a hell of a chance in Hawthorne if they let in new guys like Matt Stonie, Aaron Ybarra, Johnnie Excel – assuming they sign up.
A. Nonymous said
March 29, 2011 @ 9:00 pm
You really have no clue how IFOCE/MLE works, do you, Stephanie? The SPONSOR drives the contest – IFOCE/MLE is run by an ADVERTISING agency. The sponsor puts up the money – prizes and a fee for Shea Communications, the fee which can amount to low five digit amounts, for what amounts to ADVERTISING for the brand. Shea Communications / IFOCE/MLE set up the contests (or qualifiers), but the sponsor has final say where / when / how much. Nathan’s contests are held (generally) where there is a Nathan’s franchise.
The focus is not about Competitive Eating – it’s about advertising. The sponsor doesn’t really care who wins, as long as they get media coverage and somebody gets a picture with a really big check. The eaters care, and that’s why sometimes there is a general outcry about placement and weighing results. However, other than the eaters and their supporters / fans, nobody really cares.
Nathan in Cali said
March 29, 2011 @ 9:01 pm
stephanie_wu said (Registered August 17, 2010)
Thanks.
I am aware of what happened in with Crazy Legs last year; that was actually in Escondido, not San Jose.
———————-
Crazy legs got a 6 HDB deduction in San Jose and his glove trick was first caught at that event… Escondido he was exposed much more due to the video, pictures and other eaters saying so… But then again the BS Lazy Legs pulled in San Jose wasn’t made such a big deal about or even talked about much because it didnt cost another eater a trip to Nathan’s…
again, it’s nice to say how things should work, but the sponsor is King and what they say pretty much goes, if eaters from Northern Cali wants to compete in Nathan’s they’ll have to travel… Pat B and Tim Brown live in Chicago, they’re gonna have to travel further then 2 states to qualify and those guys have paid their dues, this is how the game is played either you buck up or don’t show up.
ps – Goose Gilbert ate 29.5HDB’s in 12 mins respectively, but Nathan’s is a 10 min contest.
cheers!
Larell Marie Mele said
March 29, 2011 @ 9:26 pm
Cutter – the Nathan’s qualifiers are 10 min contests
stephanie_wu said (Registered August 17, 2010)
March 29, 2011 @ 10:38 pm
You really have no clue how IFOCE/MLE works, do you, Stephanie? The SPONSOR drives the contest – IFOCE/MLE is run by an ADVERTISING agency. The sponsor puts up the money – prizes and a fee for Shea Communications, the fee which can amount to low five digit amounts, for what amounts to ADVERTISING for the brand. Shea Communications / IFOCE/MLE set up the contests (or qualifiers), but the sponsor has final say where / when / how much. Nathan’s contests are held (generally) where there is a Nathan’s franchise.
The focus is not about Competitive Eating – it’s about advertising. The sponsor doesn’t really care who wins, as long as they get media coverage and somebody gets a picture with a really big check. The eaters care, and that’s why sometimes there is a general outcry about placement and weighing results.
I’m well aware of how IFOCE works. If the Sheas cared at all, they could easily request the hot dogs and buns from Nathan’s for a few more regional qualifiers, and have one of their interns cook them up at some location, for minimal cost. It doesn’t matter if there is a Nathan’s there or not, and I can’t see why Nathan’s would object. Heck, charge a small admission fee to help defray the costs. IFOCE could even do a mini-barnstorming tour across the country to connect with fans. Build the organization from the ground up. It’s not all about the top 10 eaters, but getting fresh new faces in to the sport so it doesn’t become stale, just like you get fresh new faces each season for singing with American Idol. You don’t get new faces by holding minimal qualifiers, each set up so a certain person can win. The sport needs new rivalries. IFOCE was great when Kobayashi held the Yellow Mustard Belt and everyone hated that a Japanese citizen was the world champion of a sport that most people feel belongs to America. He was evil incarnate when he came out of nowhere and doubled the hot dog record, and failed to be defeated year after year. Kobayashi was like the Iron Sheik and then Joey Chestnut was like Hulk Hogan, taking the belt back from Japan. But now it’s pretty much always the same order of finish in IFOCE events: 1. Joey, 2. Patrick, 3. BOB. Change and upsets are what keeps a sport exciting.
However, other than the eaters and their supporters / fans, nobody really cares.
It’s obvious to me that the Shea’s care about money, and not so much the integrity and development of the sport of competitive eating, especially among youth. The fact that so many of their sponsors are casinos is disturbing.
anonymous 22 said
March 30, 2011 @ 1:21 am
Without anyone challenging Joey it will be boring after the 3 min mark. The sad thing is unless you’re under contract with the Shea’s you can’t qualify. You need to see different competitors not the same each yr. The cameras usually stay on Joey Chestnut. Let some independent eaters try, according to the IFOCE their eaters are the best in the world so what do they have to lose.. I think there are quite a few eaters that would probably do decent. It’s a matter of time before Nathan”s will be thought of like the Philly wingbowl. Is it fixed?????????????
Cutter said (Registered November 9, 2010)
March 30, 2011 @ 3:27 am
I am not sure if anybody has previously suggested this, but i look at many videos of various qualifiers from years past and find that each competitor has way too many cups of water. water is for dunking and drinking, not hiding debris. limiting the number of cups in front of each contestant would make these debris messes less transparent to the judges. not all debris messes are on purpose, obviously some eaters can be sloppier than others. proper and more accurate deductions can be made for intentional and unintentional sloppiness. some of these guys have dozens of cups of water and it just looks way to easy to lose a few dog or bun fragments with nobody being the wiser. I am sure others have already suggested something like this and I am not saying limiting the cups is a must but it would seem logical to look into a smaller number of cups per contestant.
I wonder how far off ‘expert’ will be on his predictions for various qualifiers. I think almost all those eaters will get in, but i think some of the locations are a bit suspect. like what if sonya goes to geogia and not charlotte while hunt goes to charlotte or denmark goes to vegas, monson to one of the cali locations…
Jamminjoe3 said
March 30, 2011 @ 5:31 am
anon9:00 pm please let me correct you the “fees” go to six figures an to the rest of you the top ten will go wherever they want and a plane ticket will be provided if requested and please NOBODY call mr pickel so he shows up in coney like the moron he is.
Hot n Nasty said
March 30, 2011 @ 5:36 am
It’s hardly Joey, Patrick, Bob. Eater X has been in front of Bob the last two years. Bob is never in the hunt for second place. Eater X is!
Cups Runneth Over said
March 30, 2011 @ 5:41 am
Limit the water and increase the safety risk.
Rhonda Evans said (Registered March 6, 2008)
March 30, 2011 @ 7:53 am
I like that the IFOCE is holding qualifiers in new territories, and dropping some of the old locations, even though I’m a sentimentalist. As Steph indicated, that’s how you find new talent. Staying in the same locations year after year is like trying to tap into the same mineral veins over and over looking for gold when the AU has been exhausted from that location (if there ever was any).
However … MLE can look long and hard, but I strongly doubt anyone will be able to wrest the Mustard Yellow Belt from Joey for as long as Joey wants to participate. Kobayashi is the only person this side of the asteroid belt who might be able to do that, and he’s out of the Nathan’s Finals for the foreseeable future.
The only race is for second place between X and Pat. I’m rooting for X. He’s still improving, if only slightly.
Sonya remains the world’s best female, but MLE doesn’t market her like that. It’s not cost-effective to separate genders. (And it would set a bad precedent, financially, if the IFOCE did.)
As good as Sonya is, at Nathan’s she’s just an also ran to the IFOCE, even if not to her fans—-like me, Stallion Itallion, Hank (whoever he is), Mama Conti, probably Legs, and a few thousand others.
Sonya is one of only two rock stars in CE today, along with Takeru, who remains #1!
Humm said
March 30, 2011 @ 8:22 am
Rhonda, are you drunk again?
As for the other comments about the Sheas not caring about the eaters, you hit the nail on the head. Why do think eaters eventually get tired of the BS and leave the fed. You should see more of this soon and the new faces joining today are more mediocre than ever. Can’t wait for July 4th so I can witness Chestnut beat nobody once again. Wow real exciting.
A. Nonymous Fan said
March 30, 2011 @ 8:46 am
stephanie_wu March 29, 2011 @ 10:38 pm : It’s obvious to me that the Shea’s care about money, and not so much the integrity and development of the sport of competitive eating, especially among youth. The fact that so many of their sponsors are casinos is disturbing.
I think you just signed your death certificate, good luck ever been contracted by MLE/IFOCE!
Rhonda Evans said (Registered March 6, 2008)
March 30, 2011 @ 9:44 am
Humm? Don’t drink lad … don’t smoke either. Follow my example and get off whatever you’re on.
Don’t turn my words around! My comments in the last post say nothing about the Sheas not caring about the eaters. That’s your take.
Anonymous said
March 30, 2011 @ 10:54 am
“It’s hardly Joey, Patrick, Bob. Eater X has been in front of Bob the last two years. Bob is never in the hunt for second place. Eater X is!”
Try every year at Nathan’s.
Humm said
March 30, 2011 @ 11:30 am
Was just asking if you were drunk Rhonda. I love you and your posts. I was referring to the posts before you. Sorry for the confusion.
Rhonda Evans said (Registered March 6, 2008)
March 30, 2011 @ 12:15 pm
Thanks for the clarification. I took it the wrong way. I’m okay now. 🙂
anonymous said
March 30, 2011 @ 12:32 pm
why apologize to a phantom name?
anonymous said
March 30, 2011 @ 12:34 pm
May 21 qualifier is an obvious setup for Conti realizing he flopped in cheesesteaks last year and most of the eaters will be in Dorney Park that afternoon
WB FAN said
March 30, 2011 @ 1:48 pm
I DONT CARE WHAT ANYBODY SAYS, THE WRECKING BALL BROCKERT IS GOING TO WIN THE COVETED YELLOW MUSTARD BELT THIS YEAR. AND YOU CAN PUT THAT ON ICE!
A. Nonymous Fan said
March 30, 2011 @ 2:17 pm
WB Fan……………what kind of kool aid does Sean have you drinking to give you the delusion of him even coming close to the final table?
Anonymous said
March 30, 2011 @ 2:26 pm
WB FAN , your on crack, if he makes it in he will get in the Top 3 alright, Top 3 at the back of the pack
A. Nonymous Fan said
March 30, 2011 @ 2:46 pm
Anonymous said March 30, 2011 @ 2:26 pm : Top 3 at the back of the pack of his qualifying event with maybe 7 or 8 HDB’s in 10 mins………………..but I am sure he will come up with some poor excuse as to why he doesn’t preform well on that particular day and keep his undeserved ranking all because of his lame ass t shirts and the drones that follow and believe his BS
stephanie_wu said (Registered August 17, 2010)
March 30, 2011 @ 2:47 pm
I think you just signed your death certificate, good luck ever been contracted by MLE/IFOCE!
Which is fine to me, as I have never been a top eater, or desired to turn pro. As such, there is little IFOCE would have to offer me.
stephanie_wu said (Registered August 17, 2010)
March 30, 2011 @ 2:52 pm
I think you just signed your death certificate, good luck ever been contracted by MLE/IFOCE!
And, if true, this also goes to show you how petty IFOCE can be. It’s all about the money and their brand, not the people or their sport, regardless of their talent.
Stephanie Who said
March 30, 2011 @ 3:52 pm
This Stephanie person is getting tiresome. At first I appreciated her enthusiasm and interest in competitive eating and her perspective as a newcomer. But she is quickly evolving into a critic of things that is not reflective of her experience or talent. MLE is not for her. Fine. But for many people, the organization has served them well, and has provided some experiences of a lifetime, travel, and a little name recognition or cash isn’t a bad thing. Look MLE has its problems, but for some neophyte to be critic in chief as displayed in this post, is a bit annoying like she’s the only one with the vast knowledge and ethics who recognize those problems. Don’t think for one minute that everyone doesn’t know that if Stephanie had one ounce of the talent of someone like Juliete or Sonya that she wouldn’t be planning her itinerary of things to do while in New York on the July 4th weekend. It has nothing to do with Stephanie’s special brand of self worth that must be lacking in those who eat for MLE. So Steph, please go back to telling us about how Chitbird’s Diner all-you-can-eat meal is harder to do than Bum Fock’s Hamburger House — really it’s fascinating stuff and it’s at least something you know what your talking about.
Cutter said (Registered November 9, 2010)
March 30, 2011 @ 4:53 pm
Steph, Casino’s are a business like any other. It is a redistribution of of currency. Casinos provide entertainment, gambling, and other posh services. While it is true that some people have gambling problems and the casino seems to exploit that part of human nature, people that make their living from the casino industry see it a different way. It is true that Casinos do not provide anything of extreme value towards exports or to advance or improve civilization. But just like a movie theatre, it does provide an outlet for relaxation or entertainment. I can see where you are coming from, but as an industry insider I see it like many other businesses. Actually Casino sponsorship in MLE is one small way that we can see the business to business relationship between MLE and those casinos. Without Casino sponsorship MLE would be smaller and poorer.
stephanie_wu said (Registered August 17, 2010)
March 30, 2011 @ 6:00 pm
At first I appreciated her enthusiasm and interest in competitive eating and her perspective as a newcomer. But she is quickly evolving into a critic of things that is not reflective of her experience or talent.
LOL. I didn’t know only expert eaters were allowed to criticize MLE/IFOCE. The purpose of the comments section is for all people to be able to discuss the relevant topic; if you don’t like others posting here stating their opinions, you don’t need to post here ,or you can start your own discussion board, or you can continue to hate/rant. Whatever. The ironic part is you are neither a pro nor amateur eater, so maybe it is you who should shut up.
but for some neophyte to be critic in chief as displayed in this post, is a bit annoying like she’s the only one with the vast knowledge and ethics who recognize those problems.
Well I never said I was critic-in-chief, but you can believe what you want. I criticized MLE/IFOCE. So what? Who cares? Somehow my posts have struck a nerve with you.
Anonymous said
March 30, 2011 @ 6:35 pm
A. Nonymous Fan said March 30, 2011 @ 2:46 pm – “Top 3 at the back of the pack of his qualifying event with maybe 7 or 8 HDB’s in 10 mins”…hahaha thats f’n funny, hahaha
BigD said
March 30, 2011 @ 6:45 pm
I will be in Calgary for the Qualifier there on June 18 competing .. I’ll probably come in the top 3 at least .. It may be an even better Qualifier if Ken Wong’s there as well .. But we’ll see what happens
Cheers!
“Big D” Matty Dutton
Stephanie Who said
March 30, 2011 @ 7:29 pm
Stephanie, so I’m not a pro nor an amateur eater. Once again you jump to conclusions about people and things you know nothing or little about. Thanks for proving my point. And talk about hate. Calling people greedy you never met. Making judgements about people who work or associate with places YOU find disturbing. Critical of people and associates of the MLE. So what? Who cares? Well for example, maybe people who work at casinos or are involved with the MLE care Stephanie. And for you to say that the discussion is only okay until somebody is saying things you don’t want to hear, then everyone has to “shut up,” “start your own discussion board,” or “don’t need to post here.” Talk about hitting a nerve. You know what, I bet many eaters might not have gotten started without MLE eaters and the MLE. In fact, as a women eater you seemed to come along well after Sonya and the MLE. Maybe they inspired you? But I’m sure you thought of it first. By the way, I never said I wanted you to go away. I just thought you were annoying and judgemental about people and things you didn’t know anything about. Just my opinion. So keep on responding Stephie. Unlike you I encourage it. Everyone has that right, I just feel yours is wrong and uninformed.
anonymous said
March 30, 2011 @ 8:25 pm
Tell em Tim
stephanie_wu said (Registered August 17, 2010)
March 30, 2011 @ 9:49 pm
Stephanie, so I’m not a pro nor an amateur eater. Once again you jump to conclusions about people and things you know nothing or little about
You fell right into my trap. All too easy.
You’re damn right you’re not a competitive eater. I’ve never heard of a competitive eater named “Stephanie Who”. Has anyone else? What you really are is a cowardly, anonymous nobody; but that’s ok, since you are still welcome here. A real pro would post his or her name rather than make anonymous attacks, so I know you’re not a pro.
So Steph, please go back to telling us about how Chitbird’s Diner all-you-can-eat meal is harder to do than Bum Fock’s Hamburger House — really it’s fascinating stuff and it’s at least something you know what your talking about.
An you’re definitely not an amateur eater, as amateurs have done the above type challenges or contests at one time or another. OJ’s chooses to promote some of those contests. You can agree with that or not or lik it or not.
What is clear to me is you are is a simple hater who can’t compete with actual competitive eaters, myself or any others.
Calling people greedy you never met. Making judgements about people who work or associate with places YOU find disturbing. Critical of people and associates of the MLE. So what? Who cares? Well for example, maybe people who work at casinos or are involved with the MLE care Stephanie.
Nope never did that, other than attacking the Shea’s. And their first concern IS money, not the sport. I’m sure many would agree with that.
I am critical of MLE. MLE is a sports league. People discuss it, people criticize it, just like they do other leagues like the NFL or NCAA. Welcome to the real world.
I don’t have a problem with the greedy casinos or their employees per se (other they do not care about their employees or customers health by allowing smoking everywhere), but it’s not in the best long-term interest of MLE to be associating with them, that’s all. And that’s my opinion and it’s the truth.
By the way, I never said I wanted you to go away. I just thought you were annoying and judgemental about people and things you didn’t know anything about. Just my opinion. So keep on responding Stephie. Unlike you I encourage it.
Neither did I. I mentioned options, one of which was to stay here and continue hating, which you are gladly doing. You seem to have problems with people having a normal discussion and stating their opinions, unless they are approved by you or are made by posted by certain posters, but not rookies. I mentioned leaving or starting your own forum as a way to help you overcome your problems, that’s all.
Anonymous said
March 30, 2011 @ 10:04 pm
Stephanie that is a top ranked competitive eater you are talking to. I agree with him.
anonymous said
March 31, 2011 @ 12:17 am
Stephanie who is not Tim its sonya Korean translated to English
Wow said
March 31, 2011 @ 3:15 am
This is sad. Why all the hate for Stephanie?? It’s almost as bad as it was last year when all the Ben Monson haters came out.
Rhonda Evans said (Registered March 6, 2008)
March 31, 2011 @ 8:27 am
“Who” might be Tim, though I doubt it. “Who” is definitely not Sonya. She has sense enough not to engage in exchanges on blogs. Not only that, Sonya does not berate people on the Internet. That’s one thing all of the best eaters have in common. Gee, there might be something to learn from that!
A. Nonymous Fan said
March 31, 2011 @ 10:07 am
Ben Monson was never hated because he never talked smack or offer an uneducated opinion and he did all his talking at the table. He is the real deal.
Jumping The Gun said
March 31, 2011 @ 10:31 am
> I will be in Calgary for the Qualifier there on June 18
http://www.ifoce.com/contests.php?action=detail&eventID=431 says
Please note that applicants will receive an email within 7-10 days of registering with information on the status of their registration.
Dr. Seuss said (Registered March 31, 2011)
March 31, 2011 @ 10:33 am
I read all 78 posts. And the funniest thing I read was the creation of “Stephanie Who.”
Which inspired me to write my next book:
Little Stephanie Wu,
A food challenge she will do.
On the circuit she is new,
Her mouth it does chew.
As her CE interest grew,
Her rants were BOO HOO.
I read and I just say, “Eeeww,â€
Eaters here think she’s full of poo.
There’s nothing she really knew,
And everyone thought so too.
She gives her point of view,
And rips the Sheas times 2.
With those rants you will not woo,
The Sheas won’t like you.
Be careful they might sue,
So your posts should be few.
I must advise, in lieu,
Stephanie, go have a brew!
For if you don’t watch what you say and do,
You’ll end up like Joe LaRou.
Yours truly,
The Cat In The Hat
Dr. Seuss, PhD of CE & IFOCE said (Registered March 31, 2011)
March 31, 2011 @ 11:02 am
To All,
Read the above and enjoy.
I will take requests as to my next subject.
Yours truly,
The Cat In The Hat
Comic book guy said
March 31, 2011 @ 11:06 am
Best. Post. Ever.
anonymous said
March 31, 2011 @ 12:31 pm
Its obvious stephanie is upset because two of the west coast qualifiers were dropped and she was hoping that there would be one within distance so she can eat 12 hot dogs and say she actually competed in a qualifier.Stephanie what is the point of complaning here? The only responses you well get is anonymous ones creating poems fake names and basically mocking your every word. Complain to the Sheas . At lease there is a slight possiblity you will get a legit response. It wont solive the issue but at least you contacted the right sources. Even if they added more qualifiers in CA do you honestly think you could win? MLE has 52 members that are dying to get a spot at Coney Island and a vast majority of the mid ranked eaters would not only make every effort to fly down there . Not to mention that the vast majority can probably eat more hot dogs than you can. So if your goal was to hopefully beat a bunch of amateur locals in some out of the way qualifier in a remote location in CA you are sadly mistaken.
Anonymous said
March 31, 2011 @ 12:42 pm
You really think that’s Sonya or Tim? How many pizza places and Burger Kings have you ever been to where the people who work on the floor are sitting around playing on the internet? It’s someone with a desk job or no job at all.
Cindy Loo Who said
March 31, 2011 @ 12:44 pm
I agree with my sister, it’s inspiring to read Stephanie Wu’s words of wisdom. Stephanie, please enlighten us further with your vast knowledge of how real pro eaters behave and would never go under any alias. I’m sure Joey and the others pros could benefit from your sage advice gained over the decades. Those pro eaters are so dumb and heartless not to recognize your brilliance. And thank you for your opinion of greedy casinos. By opinion, as you point out, I of course mean the truth. How could anyone think differently? But could you post a little slower, George and Richard want make sure they get all your views on what is in the best long-term interest of the MLE. Having IFOCE interns cook Nathan’s hotdogs on some grill out back — brilliant!! Why would Nathan’s have any problem with that? And why would a business want to make money? They should spend all proceeds touring the country looking for eaters like you. They could call it “Who Wants to Be the Next Stephanie Wu” tour. Stupid IFOCE. Oh you want me to shut up? Okay. OJ, since Stephanie has now become the one true word of competitive eating can we please change this site to StephFeats. I mean in this post alone she’s already blessed us with her mind blowing genius nearly 20 times.
A. Nonymous Fan said
March 31, 2011 @ 1:01 pm
The Cat In The Hat………….I seriously can not stop laughing! I think you deserve eatfeats.com post of the year for 2011!
Stallion Italian said (Registered August 27, 2010)
March 31, 2011 @ 1:23 pm
Whew, lots of heated discussions here. I doubt highly that any Sheas read eatfeats. What is in it for them? They are not asking for help or opinions. I think MLE is doing just fine and is happy with what they are doing. The rest here is just words for each other with information about all kinds of competitive eating, some nice words for some and lots of conspiracy theories and hate.
Square and Fair said
March 31, 2011 @ 1:54 pm
What if everyone voted in a poll to select a judge to be at every qualifier on the Nathans circiut?The judge would get travel benies and a reasonable pay for each event.It would be benificial to all participants.
Fair not Square said
March 31, 2011 @ 2:26 pm
You are kidding right, anything that cost the Sheas money is not an option.
anonymous said
March 31, 2011 @ 2:30 pm
the comments were left after normal biz hours why would it be inconcievable that Sonya or Tim were not behind it ?
Dr. Seuss, PhD of CE & IFOCE said (Registered March 31, 2011)
March 31, 2011 @ 2:36 pm
Mr. or Mrs. A. Nonymous Fan (March 31, 2011 @ 1:01 pm),
Thank you so much for your kind words. It is refreshing to hear something positive on Eat Feats.
In the event a 2011 Post Of The Year poll is instituted, please remember my poetic ways.
And once again, I will be taking requests for my next poem topic!
Yours truly,
The Cat In The Hat
Rhonda Evans said (Registered March 6, 2008)
March 31, 2011 @ 3:09 pm
Yeah, this will be another year to catch a nap, having the Nathan’s finals without Koby. I think I’ll record it, however, and see if I can work with MLE to obtain IP permission to market the video as a sedative.
Gentleman Joe said (Registered December 8, 2005)
March 31, 2011 @ 3:37 pm
I’d vote for it as post of the yr. Do me Cat in the hat.
Jamminjoe3 said
March 31, 2011 @ 3:49 pm
Cat in the hat nice poem, I don’t know if I should be pleased and honored by the mention or pissed by the context, so I’ll just leave it at that. for what it’s worth you spelled my name wrong,I’m sure you know the correct spelling and that it would still work.
Anonymous said
March 31, 2011 @ 3:57 pm
Tim works nights. Not sure about Sonya, but she works a lot.
BigD said
March 31, 2011 @ 6:41 pm
Competitive eating is not as big up here in Canada as it is in the USA “Jumping The Gun” .. Im pretty sure I’ll make it past registration though .. Im that confidant about this
Not so Suess said
March 31, 2011 @ 7:05 pm
So here come the Sheas
to take care of Crazy Legs
with his own qualifier
even though his dog total won’t be higher.
Set the camera above
To keep an eye on the glove
so we don’t have a repeat
of the fed’s boy they let cheat
and set off the jeers
along with Janus’ tears
he will shed from his cryin
and get bombarded on beautiful Brian.
Dr. Seuss, PhD of CE & IFOCE said (Registered March 31, 2011)
March 31, 2011 @ 8:41 pm
Jammin Joe, I am sorry for the spelling and I sure hope you’re honored because I did not mean anything negative towards you. I was merely showing how you were wronged in the past. As per Gentleman Joe, I will look into writing a piece. And Not So Seuss, hhmmm, sorry but you need a little work, but thank you for the imitation. It’s the greatest form of flattery.
Yours truly,
The Cat In The Hat
Anonymous said
March 31, 2011 @ 9:27 pm
Big D. Every contest that I have participated in, mostly small ones, attract some serious competitors. There is no doubt in my mind that since this is a nathans qualifier and they have basically taken away 2 US locations, that serious competitors will come out of every nook and cranny. The good thing about eatfeats is that I get to find out timely information about all contests and challenges in every corner of the globe. So does everybody else. You might be right about the qualifier but you might not. I live in a place that has many competitive eaters. I don’t know how you are so sure about the registration process. For unsigned eaters like myself it is a crapshoot, i might get a spot or i might not. I know better eaters than myself that have been left out of MLE competions, i am also aware of a screening process that a friend went though that i didn’t have to go through (even though i was the unproven commodity). I am thinking it is a roll of the dice, I am sure there are guys with passports that don’t mind travelling to beautiful Canada in the summer/spring.
HIPPO said
March 31, 2011 @ 10:07 pm
DR. SEUSS, DO THE WRECKING BALL BROCKERT!
Wrecking Ball said (Registered May 6, 2010)
March 31, 2011 @ 11:17 pm
I am ok with being picked on
Ben Do said
April 1, 2011 @ 2:03 am
Anonymous 9:27 pm
The Calgary qualifier is only open to Canadian residents. Unless the big name eaters get dual citizenship by June 18th, or the IFOCE amends the rules because of lack of interest…I think BigD has a decent chance of participating in that qualifier.
Anonymous said
April 1, 2011 @ 5:22 am
It was made clear by the IFOCE office that NO AMERICANS may take part in the international qualifiers. NOW, does that mean Crazy Legs can take part in China because his mommy lives in Japan? Stay tuned
Jamminjoe3 said
April 1, 2011 @ 5:57 am
Dr.Suess no offence taken and might I Suggets “The tale of two Joe’s ” as the piece Unless G.Joe wants it all for himself, which would be ok too
Nathan in Cali said
April 1, 2011 @ 11:12 am
Anonymous said
April 1, 2011 @ 5:22 am
It was made clear by the IFOCE office that NO AMERICANS may take part in the international qualifiers. NOW, does that mean Crazy Legs can take part in China because his mommy lives in Japan? Stay tuned
————-
China isn’t Japan, unless they are having a qualifier in Japan that is a secret….
Glad to see no Americans can enter the international qualies, so this years Nathan’s will be even more un-enteresting then last year (if thats even possible) with 2 less of the top ranked IFOCE eaters at the final table. Unless They let Pete compete but, we all know that won’t happen.
anonymous said
April 1, 2011 @ 12:23 pm
As long as Tim Janus has the final say so Pete will not compete in Calgary. Remember Janus is being groomed for a bed bug dog training position in Fla so his every wish is the sheas command
anonymous said
April 1, 2011 @ 12:52 pm
Looks like Crazy Legs will have some competition…
http://twitter.com/conundrum54/status/53826605046431744
Scotty2Stomachs said
April 1, 2011 @ 1:29 pm
Hahahaha cat in the hat?! What is going on on this thread?! Honestly let’s talk dogs people! Who is likely to attempt this outside MLE/IFOCE?
another eater said
April 1, 2011 @ 1:59 pm
I really hope this isn’t another uso trip that they just happened to make into a qualifier. Its amazing how some guys get stuff handed to them while the rest of us have to bust our asses.
anonymous said
April 1, 2011 @ 2:21 pm
Wow that really sucks. Who the hell is Micha Collins to get a paid trip to China while everyone else has to pay their way to lose . Someone should complain
Ft. Bejing said
April 1, 2011 @ 2:28 pm
Another Eater, if you can find a military base in communist Bejing, China, I’m sure the MLE would be happy to send you there.
Rhonda Evans said (Registered March 6, 2008)
April 1, 2011 @ 2:51 pm
I wouldn’t screw around with Micah Collins. I’m a fairly good judge of character, and I suspect the man is not to be screwed with … then you’ll certainly be indoctrinated on who he is.
another eater said
April 1, 2011 @ 2:59 pm
Whatever the reason, he shouldn’t be going there. We were told don’t sign up for there or Canada. Obviously he knows someone somewhere and who knows who else is getting preferential treatment. I guess if you kiss ass long enough and wet enough you too can get special things.
bb fan said
April 1, 2011 @ 3:17 pm
send brian. hes more deserving than kong. imagine the diplomatic relations when he showed up. do they even know what pickles are?
another eater said
April 1, 2011 @ 3:24 pm
Rhonda, all I’m saying is that Micah shouldn’t be going. We weren’t supposed to know for 7-10 days yet he’s already bragging about where he’s going. Why not send Juliet? She’d be a hometown favorite and she’s a way better eater than him.
WingKong said (Registered December 19, 2006)
April 1, 2011 @ 3:52 pm
3 thing,
1. I kiss no ones ass (except maybe Mrs. Kong)…
2. Does anyone post under their name anymore???
3. April Fools…
Rhonda Evans said (Registered March 6, 2008)
April 1, 2011 @ 3:58 pm
Who’s to say who should and shouldn’t be going, and where? I congratulate WK on the opportunity!
Knock ’em dead Kong!
Jumping The Gun said
April 2, 2011 @ 2:49 am
Matt D M None
2009 Jul 3 1st 8 hot dogs 10 min Nathan’s Hot Dog A Thon Vancouver, BC, Canada
Ken “The Demolisher” Wong Surrey, BC, Canada M IFOCE
2008 Aug 18 1st 8.5 hot dogs 6 min Nathan’s Hot Dog A Thon Vancouver, BC, Canada
Jumping The Gun said
April 2, 2011 @ 8:54 am
8.5*10/6=14.2
anonymous said
April 2, 2011 @ 9:05 am
Only two worthy of going . Seiiken or Juliet . It would be an outrage if either were passed over
Anonymous said
April 2, 2011 @ 1:46 pm
It looks like the Cat In The Hat may have silenced the Wu.
BigD said
April 2, 2011 @ 7:26 pm
Im going to keep my mouth shut until I hear from the IFOCE .. Yes those are facts JTG , but alot has changed since 2009.
1Fish 2 Fish 3 Fish said
April 2, 2011 @ 8:06 pm
Anonymous said
April 2, 2011 @ 1:46 pm
It looks like the Cat In The Hat may have silenced the Wu.
Indeed he has
A few days have passed
and No response from her
Mean was he? indeed he were
eatfeats is empty, without her at all
Unlike the the plates from the Wrecking Ball
Nathan’s was such a big issue
don’t be sad, here’s a tissue
if you cant eat twenty
it means you’re not ready
Mr. Not So Beautiful said
April 2, 2011 @ 8:29 pm
Oh Mr. NOT so Beautiful
i’m sorry, but you are so pitiful
coming on here,acting so tough
when it comes to CE, its never enough
your eating days are done
maybe you do it for fun?
Lets be realistic
i saw the statistics
you’ll never come out on top
maybe your,CE career should come to a stop
your pickle crown is gone
so forget about the hot dog and the bun
the day you take 1st Place
i’ll throw water in your face
oh wake up, mr. NOT so Beautiful!
Jon Bello said
April 3, 2011 @ 8:50 am
hilarious Kong!
Mr Pickle said
April 3, 2011 @ 10:06 am
Assholes that post with no name
Live a life thats nothing but lame
Afraid to confront
Because theyre a cunt
so everyone else is to blame
Youre rhyming is so very poor
cause eatfeces is all you live for
A spit in your face
would be one total waste
So heres to you
you pitiful whore
Anonymous said
April 3, 2011 @ 12:17 pm
Mr. Pickle you’re so very fickle,
and your poem is outright pathetic.
The style reminds me of that of Brian Seiken,
Who could stand to be a little more energetic.
Anonymous said
April 3, 2011 @ 12:23 pm
Mr. Pickle you’re so very fickle,
and your poem is outright pathetic.
It’s as if it was written by (Beautiful?) Brian Seiken,
Who, practically speaking, is damn near dyslexic.
anonymous said
April 3, 2011 @ 8:33 pm
Very perceptive of you. Now show your face at a contest so i can spit in it while you lick it up . Its about as pathetic as your mother. Now everyone is showing their lame poetic skills. Why dont you enter a poetry contest so you could win a bar of soap or mouthwash as first prize
anonymous said
April 3, 2011 @ 9:11 pm
so easy to hate when you use a disguise
while your motive in life is to hope i get a rise
find another hobby instead of mooching off mom
but its hard when youre existence is eafteces.com
China, here I come... not said
April 4, 2011 @ 6:02 pm
U.S. Eaters Heading to China?
4/4/2011
MLE and Nathan’s Famous will give the opportunity for American eaters to compete in Beijing on May 18. In what will be the first-ever qualifier held in China, a limited number of seats will be opened to American eaters. The top finishers from the U.S. and and China will each earn seats to compete in Coney Island on July 4th.
To sign-up for a potential spot in this contest, visit IFOCE.com tomorrow at 11:00am EST.
More news regarding a new look to this year’s Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest will be released in the days ahead.
http://www.ifoce.com/news.php?action=detail&sn=847
anonymous said
April 4, 2011 @ 7:43 pm
May I ask who is footing the bill ? Ifoce? Or will it cost us $1000 to rub elbows with some Chinese locals?
SPBBBBMBBB said
April 4, 2011 @ 9:47 pm
If IFOCE is paying, heck, I’ll go!!
anonymous said
April 4, 2011 @ 11:50 pm
I hear the lo mein there is delicious. Worth spending $1500 in airfare for large lo mein at $2.85 a quart
Anonymous said
April 5, 2011 @ 4:46 am
I’m going and taking a month’s dirty laundry with me. The savings to get my clothes done cheaply will help make up for the air fare cost.