Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest
Rules
the defending champion; winners of a regional qualifying contest for that season; individuals qualifying as one of two wildcards (highest two average qualifier scores without winning a single qualifier); and those invited by special invitation of the MLE. (See "Controversies" section below.) The competitors stand on a raised platform behind a long table with drinks and Nathan's Famous hot dogs in buns. Most contestants have water on hand, but other kinds of drinks can and have been used. Condiments are allowed, but usually are not used. The hot dogs are allowed to cool slightly after grilling to prevent possible mouth burns. The contestant that consumes (and keeps down) the most hot dogs and buns (HDB) in ten minutes is declared the winner. The length of the contest has changed over the years, previously 12 minutes, and in some years, only three and a half minutes; since 2008, 10 minutes.
Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest-5