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"Humble" Bob Shoudt
Major League Eater and IFOCE Member
"Humble" Bob Thoughts
Copyright © 2006 by
"Humble" Bob Shoudt
All Rights reserved
"Humble" Bob Shoudt
All Rights reserved
Current World Ranking - # 5
7/23
I have been laying low for a some time recovering from the Nathans hoopla. All in all it was something that I was happy to be a part of. There is so much stuff going on surrounding that day that it really is a little overwhelming. So many people trying to do some many things. Amazing the show gets aired with all of the things that has to go right.
I am off to work on the 26th. I get to cross off another state in both my personal life and my CE life. I have never been to Oklahoma to compete or visit. I am looking forward to it. This contest is at the Cherokee Casino just outside of Tulsa, OK. I am excited to compete in a casino based on American Indian heritage. I am a small part Native American, of the Miami tribe originally based in Northern Indiana. Interestingly they were forced to move to northeastern Oklahoma in the mid 1800s. Since Tulsa is in northeastern OK, I may actually be competing against a very distant relative. That would be cool.
So if they are any people of Miami descent going to the contest, come up and say hi. I will dedicate by first BBQ brisket sandwich to our common forefathers.
6/28
Very busy of late. Dance recitals, baseball playoffs, yardwork... All that is my life outside of CE. All of you readers - Mom, Dad and anyone else want to hear about CE. OK.
The Nathan's hotdog eating contest is almost here. The finals are only days away. The big change this year is bringing the contest down to only ten minutes from the 12 minutes it has been since I started in CE years ago. There are all sorts of rumours, however I think it was because the almost super-human eater, Takeru threw up twice in the last two years. This is something that rarely ever happens to any professional eater during a contest, let alone our superstar. Regardless, the contest really is different.
I have always found that eating the Nathan's hotdogs to be the hardest and most nauseating contest. During the contest it is very rough, as the taste just kind of builds and builds and builds. After a while, the taste seems like it is seared to your tongue and it will never go away. I am sure that one hotdog would be considered delicious by just about everyone in the entire US, but after 25 or so, they don't taste quite the same. Usually I block out almost any taste in a contest. You just pick the food up and eat it. I can't for Nathan's. It just doesn't work.
Then you get to experience the fun after the contest when all of those dogs are just sitting there in your stomach. For me it starts about 30 minutes or so afterwards. Burps just show up out of nowhere and they do not smell pretty. About the same time I feel totally exhausted as my stomach starts its battle versus the dogs. About 2 hours afterwards is when my stomach really starts roaring. It is almost like it produces so much stomach acid for the battle, that it really aches. I have found some antacid helps at this point. This continues about 8 - 9 hours until something happens, the acid and stomach start to win and beat down the invading hotdogs. At that point the discomfort starts to go away. At this time, you start to think that you might do the contest again next year.
All that said, I was estactic when I heard the 10 minute news. Two less minutes of eating agony. There is absolutely no downside to this for me. Heck, make the contest 1 minute for all I care.
I think the telecast will start at noon on July 4th and the eating will start around 12:40 pm.
As for my goals for the contest: Do more then my best (38). I would also like to eat my age in hotdogs. I am approximately 41 3/4 so it would be pretty cool to do that. For me this contest is about having some fun and seeing people I have not seen in a while.
This contest was considered by all to be our Super Bowl of CE. It is huge, tons of people and live TV. After experiencing the contest the last three years and the Krystal Finals the last three years, I would say that Krystal is now our Super Bowl. I know other eaters that are saying the same thing. It doesn't really matter though as everyone has their own opinion. Regardless, they are both still our big two events. I think you all know which one I would prefer to win. Give me a K - R - Y - S - T -A - L.
Good luck to all of the eaters. See you all this week. Can't wait to meet some of the new folks.
5/25
Yesterday was a fun day. I arrived at the Philly Qualifier with Noah and Bailey at about 10 sharp. We wanted to get there early to make sure we were able to do any crafts and face paint activities before the crowds showed up. We were able to make a hotdog pin, a hotdog visor, get some temp tatoos, ballon animals and do the hotdog limba. So before any Nathan's activities satrted, we already had a blast. I was doing the crafts for Molly as she had a big pool party commitment that did not allow her to make her 6th consecutive Philadelphia Qualifier yes 6th. She is only 6 but she was born in March and she has never missed this contest.
The neat eating contest started the Nathan's stuff. Bailey entered again this year. She is a regular in this contest. She must have the gift though as she always seems to win these things. Of course she has tied all of the othe contestants each year, but it still is first place. In my previous 5 Philly Qualifiers, I have never won. I think I came in 3rd, 3rd?, 3rd, 2nd, and 2nd. So the pressure was really on her this year to defend her title and pull into a tie with Kobayashi. She came through and won her 6th consecutive Philadelphia neat eating contest. She finished in a 20 way tie for first place. Remember that this title will go along with all of her other neat eating titles that she has earned at Molly Pitcher, Shea Stadium, and possibly some mall in NJ and Atlanta Zoo - too many to remember. Anyway next year she will go for her 7th straight. Is there a little Joey Chestnut out there that can take the tile from her (an all of the other kids that show up that day)?
Next we went on to the Speed eating contest. In attendance were two of Juliet clients from MD, Pete Miernicki, Sean Gordon (soon to be ranked), Bill Myers, Russ Keeler and local favorite Dave "The Dumpster" Moyer. Dave is about 10x more well known in my hometown than I am. This guy is a celebrity! He brought a huge crew on top of the usual large crowd he draws anywhere he goes.
I found out a couple of things before the contest. The first was that the plant that manufactures the hotdogs for Sam's Club, only makes the skinless variety. So all of the Sam's Club contests will use the skinless ones in the qualifiers. Second Randy informed me of a new 3 cup rule for the qualifiers. I was a little surprised at this rule, but it was implemented at the start of this season. When I got to the table I saw I had 6 cups or so in front of me - I guess for two eaters that were full of water. I just dumped some of them out and left the others with the water in them.
I had learned in my first Nathan's contest at Molly Pitcher in 2002, that water is really not the best choice to use in a Nathan's contest. Some people brought their own stuff to use that day. Good idea. Now I bring whatever is on sale at Amelias. I think it was lemonade. Can't wait for the clear fruit punch to go back on sale! Some eaters on the circuit use certain drinks to be cool. Everyone knows that Pat Bertoletti only uses red fruit punch so his hands and arms get stained. Then while sitting around the airport, girls will ask him what happened. Then he goes into this "Oh that, that's just something that happens when you are the #2 ranked eater in the World like I am. Did I mention that I beat Kobayashi twice last fall and I beat Chestnut just the other day?" I don't get why girls don't see right through that. I guess the mohawk hypnotizes them or something.
Anyway, back to the contest. Nathan's switched vendors this year to Schmidts. I noticed that they sell them at Costco. Our buns were very dry from sitting out and the dogs were cold. They were cooking them on a small grill at 10 when I arrived. I would prefer fresh buns and hot, hotdogs, but it really doesn't matter as we all ate the same thing. The contest went fairly well and I seemed to be rolling along. I noticed thought that I was hearing EVERYTHING. I could not block out anything at all. This really slows you down. I could hear every word from George. My kids came through loud and clear. I could hear Sherrie Russo, Rick the Manager and tons of crowd people. Lots of people were yelling lots of things. Not just to me, to everyone. There was a lot of cheering going on and I heard every word. I actually kind of enjoyed the moment, something I never wanted to do before as it really slows you down.
Going in I did not know what to expect. You always want to do your personal best. My previous best was 35 last year at the finals. So anything higher than that would be great in 10 minutes. I hit 35 around 9:15 or so. At that point I realized that I have a shot at the great Sonya Thomas' 12 minute Philly Qualifier record of 36 1/2. I was able to pass that. Who knows what she could have done yesterday though as she is an extremely tough competitor that seems to have another gear when she really needs it. That would have been a real battle. One that I have lost many a time in the past, too many to post hear as it is just too huge a number. I am approx 0 and 1, 371 against Sonya in hotdogs. Maybe this year...(I have only said that for years now).
Back to the story. Right after the contest I hear someone saying he is going to throw up or something. A lady was all I know. No, just wanted to try to manuever the HDB in my mouth as I was very low on liquids and I did not want to waster the drops I had left.
I then took many pictures with foreign visitors. I got some "Good show mate!" lines from some. Very funny. Then I was interviewed by a local radio station - KYW. It took me quite some time to find that interview today, but I got an email with a link in it. Somehow it was posted on youtube. I was surprised to see my kids being interviewed. I had always thought that someone had to give permission to interview your kids. I know that a fan may just so happen to take their picture and post it, but a major newstation? I would have asked my kids first on the side and then if they wanted to do it, I would have let them. Adults can tend to push kids into these things. Therefore I am not really impressed by Hadas Kuznits. Come on it is not like you did not know who their dad was, you interviewed me.
After the contest, Randy came up and told me that they are shipping the hotdogs for the winners to their house this year. That makes it nice and easy! I have to clear up some freezer space as I just hit a huge sale on Boca products and I bought about 70 boxes.
I do not know the official results, but I do know that Sean "Flash" Gordon finished 2nd with 20. Russ Keeler finished 3rd with 17. These are really good numbers on these slow hotdogs. I do not know other results as my memory is poor right after contests. I do know that Wild Bill probably has the exact results as he always does. He was actually writing down everyones names as they got introduced. Thank you Bill for doing this thankless task. You really help to fill a void in the statistics department. Someday I hope that we can get to the point where all numbers are reported for all contestants. I know that it is a time consuming process, especially when it has to be weighed. With the time that people put into travelling to and competing in the contest, that would be a welcome addition to the existing results.
Thank you to all of the people that came out. I look forward to representing Philadelphia on the 4th.
For the eaters out there, I will see you at pizza!
5/18
Houston was the best. The festival was great, a real family atmosphere filled with some pumped up fans. It was great to see so many eaters, especially ones that I do not see very often. Syko rocked out the best CE outfit that I have seen to date. Chris got to eat some of his native food. Damon was there representing 'norleans. I also got to eat next to Nasty Nathan for the first time. Turns out I am more nasty than Nathan as I think I hit him with some empty cups in the foot a couple of times. I apologized afterwards as there really is no excuse for that. I was trying to throw them on the ground and step on them but a couple may have rolled his way.
Aside from some of the best food I have ever had in a contest, I enjoyed the people even more. What a great group of friendly people. I am sorry that I was not able to stay Saturday night. Count me in next year, alright Dimitri! Opa! (I hope I spelled and used that last word right).
5/12
Can you say gyros? I know I can. Can you eat gyros? I know I can. But will that be enough? See you Saturday.
2/29
It has been almost 8 months now since the IFOCE has come out with a realistic list of new rankings. Yes I am still ranked 7th but I do not know for how long I will hold that ranking. Unfortunately the last ranking was right after Nathan's and that seems to me to be a long time between rankings. I like to stay active in CE, but I can only do what I can. Lets look at the last contests. I was not able to participate in the noodle contest, as that was invitation only. I competed in Krystals. I competed in Wing Bowl. Both of these I was able to do a qualifier to get in to. I was online to sign up for Pork Skins, but had to go to bed after 10:15 EST and the contest was still not posted. I passed on Jalepenos for many reasons as well as Matzoh balls, asparagus and corn. Those 4 were all my choice.
I really prefer contests that are not subjective. For example, you either eat a Krystal hamburger or you don't. There is no decision whether you bit the pepper close enough to the stem or not. Therefore I hope to get another contest in before the new rankings come out in July 2008. I want to make sure that I am able to keep a top ranking just in case a new opportunity comes along.
That said, I am looking forward to this CE season in 2008. I think that you will find me finishing exactly where you thought I would when I get a chance to compete. I also look forward to the true comraderie after the eating contests that exists amoung some o the eaters. I can't wait to share a laugh with the people that truly enjoy the sport for the sport as we watch the same people over and over walk away from the bar tab. Too funny! I can't wait to compete!!!
Well, if you like hamburgers give 'em a try sometime. Me, I can't usually eat 'em 'cause my girlfriend's a vegetarian. Which more or less makes me a vegetarian, but I sure love the taste of a good burger. You know what they call a Quarter Pounder with Cheese in France?
2/17/08
I believe in taking care of myself, in a balanced diet, in a rigorous exercise routine. In the morning, if my face is a little puffy, I'll put on an ice pack while doing my stomach crunches. I can do a thousand now. After I remove the icepack, I use a deep pore-cleanser lotion. In the shower, I use a water-activated gel cleanser, then a honey-almond body scrub, and on the face an exfoliating gel scrub. Then I apply an herb mint facial masque which I leave on for ten minutes while I prepare the rest of my routine. I always use an after-shave lotion with little or no alcohol because alcohol dries your face out and makes you look older. Then moisturizer, then an anti-aging eye balm, followed by a final moisturizing "protective" lotion.
2/10/08
A month between updates - too long. A lot has happened in the last month. I guess the biggest thing is Wing Bowl. After qualifying with the eggs, I attended a Wing Off at the Trappe Tavern. The Wing Off used similar sized wings as they had at the Wing Bowl. The judge was also a Wing Bowl judge, so I wanted to get into this Wing Off in the worst way. I thought it would be great practice for me as I would be judged the same as in Wing Bowl. Also I had not eaten a wing since the couple I had after the Krystal Finals.
In the last round, one eater did not show, so they let me compete although I would not be eligible to win. I ate 81 wings in 10 minutes and got a score of 76. I was happy as the first round of Wing Bowl lasts 14 minutes and 76 would have made the 2nd round last year, something I have yet to do.
Then I went to the Sixers game with Erik, Joey, Pat, Rick the Manager, Dave the Dumpster and Noah. We actually managed to work our way to center court as Erik competed vs. Pete and two others. The contest took so long that the Sixers and Raptors came out to warm up for the 2nd half. I had Noah stand in front of two players and I took his picture. I felt like we were going to get arrested or something. That was fun.
Back to Wing Bowl, my float this year was a huge improvement thanks to J.D. I thought it looked awesome. Thanks J.D. Thanks Keith for assisting with the assembly. Our procession this year was the most fun of my 3 Wing Bowls that I ate in. I did not have to worry about my wife and/or mom getting hit by items launched in the air. We had 20 cans of silly string and had a great time pounding each other.
I was excited to see that I had a good Wingette like Sara. This was her first time, but she was there to assist and I really apreciate that. I am sorry that I did not get to thank her. Thanks Sara.
This was my best Wing Bowl as far as totals go. I had the same judge that I had in the Wing Off at the Trappe. (I am not naming names on purpose). The eating went very fast. I found out a good technique about 10 minutes in or so. At the end of the 14 minutes, I had eaten 108 wings. I was nervous that would not be enough as these wings were much faster then the cold rocks I had last year.
We waited for a while and then a guy came around and told us if we were in the 2nd round or not. I was told no, so I picked up my stuff. My judge came by and asked where I was sitting for the 2nd round. I said I wasn't, I didn't make it. He said "Those guys must have eaten a _ _ _ _ load of wings (refering to the other eaters). I asked him how he scored me. He said 17 and 18s on each plate (5 full plates). I was satisfied that I did not make it as that put me at 17+17+17+17+18 - worst case = 86 plus 6 on the last plate = 92 total. I assumed 92 would not be enough. When they announced that 70 was the 10th place total, I thought they they had just made a mistake. Nope. Next year...
After the event was over, we then went out as a big group and had a good day. And then we went out the next night...
1/8/08
Just bought my first Kobayashi card today. I went to a local card shop, Carl's Cards & Collectibles in Havertown, PA. I thought I would see if I could get a Kobayashi card as that is always a good card to get. I spoke with Carl and sure enough he had the 2006 Topps Allen & Ginter #312 in stock. What are the odds of that? I noticed that actually they have a great variety of cards and collectibles there (I guess that is where they got the name from). There are not many of these kind of stores left anymore with this kind of variety. I noticed that he does a lot of signings. If you are a Flyers fan, you will appreciate his Clarke and Parent autos. Those guys were huge when I was growing up.
Anyway I thought I would give credit to a great local store, one that I will make sure to frequent in the future. By the way, I noticed that Carl's wife, Sue, has a Hometown Embroidery shop. I am thinking about getting some embroidery to wear at a contest to pay homage to the great Don "Moses" Lerman.
Congrats to the latest pro qualifier Dr Bigtime. Juris, everytime I am in Nashville, I make sure to say hi. You can't call when you are in Philly? Just kidding, congrats.
1/7/08
I was able to successfully complete my eating stunt today to qualify for my 3rd Wing Bowl contest. The eggs were not as fast as I had anticipated them to be. Overall the eating went very well. It is a strange feeling for me to be eating in my work pants and shoes. I was very paranoid about not spilling a drop as I didn't want to look like a total moron at work. My family said that it was too late for that. My haircut does that already.
Yes "Humble" Bob is down to his last couple of hairs on his head. Yes they are very long. This does not add up to a combover though! I was accused of just that on the air today. That does it. I need to defend what hair pride I have left and do something. Something like get a haircut. I hate getting my hair cut though. It is so annoying. I hate just waiting there to be called over. That control of your life that you just hand right over to some stranger.
That is why I refuse to do it. You can not make me get my haircut professionaly. I have my kids cut it. Noah has been doing it for 5 years now. They love it. I gt out the cutters and put some random attachment on it. Then the three of them take turns cutting what few hairs I have. After they have had their way, my wife comes in and tries to salvage something from it. What an Angel she must be. Luckily for me I either have stunningly good looking facial features to compensate for the horrible hair or maybe she just rights me off as her good Samaratin deed for her life.
Good luck to the rest of the pros in qualifying for Wing Bowl. I think there are about 5 left.
1/4/08
During this break, I have had the opportunity to talk about CE with some of the other eaters. We discussed the contests that we liked, that were tough, hard to get to... One thing that came up was what we would do if we were running the organization. After these talks and some time to ponder that question myself and this one thing that I would do if I were in charge.
Change how the Wild Card works for Nathan's. I think the original intention was good. Now it seems to have became slightly dated. I prefer it change to the format that the Krystal contest uses. At Krystals, you only have to have a good score at one qualifier. Example: Badlands Booker in the first year. With Nathans, you have to go to three contests and have the best average over those three contests. This could cause an issue. For example: 2007 Rich L. Qualifier #1 Pat 46, Rich 33 Qualifier # 2 Joey 59.5, Rich 33. At this point he loses to two of the highest totals ever. What happens if he has a reversal in his 3rd Qualifier? Is he out of the Finals? I say no. If his 33 is one of the two highest non winning totals, then let him in.
12/30/07
What a great vacation I am having. I am really enjoying spending time with the kids. Sure it is great playing with the new Wii and getting crushed by Noah in just about every game we have. He just loves beating me. Bailey has taken to Guitar Hero like Joan Jett. She never touched our older game systems. She had zero interest. She is all over Guitar Hero though. Molly loves her Game Boy Advance system that Noah gave her. She has no idea what she is doing but she is really pressing those buttons.
I am having the most fun doing the little things though. Reading to the kids. Planting 10 different types of seeds for indoor gardens. Actually having time to talk to my wife. Just her and me having an adult conversation that we do not feel rushed over. I like that the best.
I hope that both of the people that read this site had as good of a holiday as I have had so far.
As far as eating goes. My stunt has been approved for Wing Bowl. I will be attempting 53 large hard boiled eggs in 15 mintues. Most likely on 1/7/08. I like hard boiled eggs so it should be fun. It will be even more fun going to work right after that.
Not much other eating news going on. Looking forward to competing again.
12/2/07
Today is going to be a good one. Bailey and I are going to turn on the Krystal Square Off IV 50" Plasma TV for the first time. We can't wait to see what it looks like on. This is a big step up from our current TV.
Yesterday we bought the Krystal Square Off IV new piano. It is a Yamaha brand piano and it should get delivered in a couple of weeks.
I just love the Krystal Square Off. I think next year we may plan a family vacation around it.
11/17/07
Happy Birthday Dad! You were my eating inspiration growing up!
Posted some new pics thanks to Valerie Bromann (www.valbromann.com). Why didn't you stop by to get a picture with me after the contest?
I just got a great letter in the mail that listed 7,500 reasons that the Krystal Square Off IV was the best Competitive Eating Contest in the World. Each and every one of them was very convincing I am sold!
11/8/07
Did not get to the shed. Triple coupon week is worse then I thought. I am compelled to go until I am out of coupons. Ziplocs did not show up. That is OK, I have a line on some free deodorant and toothbrushes starting on Friday. I will also hit up CVS to gather up some ECBs for the most important shopping day of the year. Those in the know realize that it is just a hyped day. We get these prices or better year round. I have the feeling that a BIG LCD TV is in my near future. I just LOVE that Krystal contest!
11/5/07
Anyway, I also have been busy trying to build up my bank on Need for Speed Hot Pursuit 2. Those cars don't buy themselves you know. Noah is not helping like he should and I have to earn it all myself. I am tempted to just buy the Corvette or Mustang right now, but I am holding fast for the more expensive ones.
Even though these two things are really important, I have to work on the new wall near the shed Tuesday. I need to bang that out before it gets too cold.
10/20/07
I have just received word that Humblitis is spreading. There was a bad outbreak earlier this year at certain contests. Now I have received confirmation that at least one eater has caught it for the Krystal Finals. Relax everyone. 39 Krystals in 2 minutes really isn't that many.
On another note, I was thinking about what I should list my occupation as for the Krystal Finals. I will leave it up to a vote. Email me your vote. Feel free to vote for any choice as there is no truth requirement needed.
1) IT Manager This is what I really do full time
2) Philanthropist Wouldn't that be cool
3) Architect If it was good enough for Art Vandalay, then why not me?
What should I list my weight and height on my release form as?
1) 6' 2" 265 lbs This what I am
2) 5' 11" 330 lbs This is what will be my listed TV stats
3) 5' 2" 165 lbs This would make many other eaters under 5 feet tall when you see us together
How should I be introduced?
1) As the 2 minute Krystal hamburger World Record Holder from Royersford, PA. What I am.
2) As the man without an epiglotis from Philadelphia PA.
3) As the man who weighs 360 lbs, 1 lb for every degree of the Earth from Philadelphia PA.
Send your emails now.
10/16/07
I forgot to mention - congrats to Pat Bertoletti on winning $25,000 in the chicken wing eating contest in Las Vegas. Pat I have some good investment ideas for you. I think you should get into some "Humble" Bob memorabilia.
Today's tip is how to pronounce "Humble" Bob's last name. First it is spelled Shoudt. Notice that there are 6 letters. All of them are there for a purpose. They all contribute in some way to the proper pronunciation of my name. Most people think it is down right hilarious to just randomly drop one of the letters when they say my name. They think they are so clever when they drop the D and say "shout". This was very popular in elementary school. Those 2nd graders are so smart and original. Fast forward to today. People still think they came up with this.
I say my name in a similar way to those that say the name Stoudt. Everyone can pronounce the D in that name. A lot of times people will say "shout?" Is that right? Haha shout. You make me wanna shout. Haha. Then they will go Bob SHOUT (saying SHOUT very loudly). Then they will say Bob SHOUT - you get it? - SHOUT. Again that was elementary school. But a girl in high school was so sure that she thought that up. I even had a coworker a couple of years ago that would have bet her life that she made it up. She asked if I ever heard that one before. When I told her I first heard that 30+ years ago, she thought I was just trying to insult her. Are you serious?
I always thought it would be funny if I selected one letter from someones name and just dropped it out when I said their name. I think they would think I am strange. Why stop at one though. How about I drop off 1 or 2, whatever will make for a better, new name. Maybe a Take Kobayashi, a Joey Chetnut, a Pat Bertolei... This is too much fun, I can see why people do it now. So everyone at Krystal Finals, pronounce my name as you will, right or wrong. If you see me talking to myself and laughing, I am not laughing at you, I am just laughing at your funny new name I just thought up.
10/14/07
Just got back from Krystal land. Boy those burgers go down easy. I met Krystal Manager David Miller of Krystal Store "Krystal ATL042" aka Store # 320. What a nice guy he is. He really went above and beyond to ensure my Krystals were just right. He also made sure that I had enough things to help me replicate my training back home.
This is a man that should be promoted to Regional Manager. Who is with me? David Miller from Store #320 for Regional Manager!
10/7/07
Just some random thoughts. "Humble" Bob has been married 17 years this weekend! Not bad! I owe it all to my wonderful wife. Thank you.
As for my next contest, I am not sure about that. We shall see.
9/29/07
Anyway I was so busy I did not even get to post about Kolaches. It was a lot of fun. What is the deal with the proze money though? I always thought that you should have the same breakdown between each place. It was like they were saying that there were two good eaters there. Then a second group of three good eaters. Then the rest. Really weird. Anyway I had a great time at the contest and afterwards. Somehow the prettiest girls in Houston are big CE fans and they came to the contest and hung out aftwerwards. The Kolache Factory crew was great. What a good company. If I lived in Houston I would send them my resume for sure. Thanks Kolache Factory!
Since my digital camera got stolen from the Nathan's Green Room aka the Nathan's loading dock that everyone seemed to have access to, I do not have any digital pictures from Houston or any of the other contests since July 4. So when I get my disposble camera developed I will try to post some Houston pics.
I missed the grits contest because my airfare was $470. Since "Humble" Bob pays his own airfare, he was in PA Saturday. But I am so glad that I did not go. It is always a bummer when you pay that much and the person next to you has that big "I flew free" smile. It is all good though. I know the deal and I choose to CVS in PA instead. Three XXL black tshirts, four bars of soap, a small gift for someone and 4 lemonades. Cost pre coupons $17.23 Total price after coupons = free. I absolutely LOVE CVS.
Another eater also told me a story about how CE was a mix of pro wrestling and pro boxing. He presented a fairly convincing argument. How it is mainly entertainment and controlled by Don King/McMahon. I do not know that I agree with him but it is always interesting to hear peoples ideas and how much time they spend thinking about CE. I do not think the IFOCE knows how much CE means to the eaters. It really consumes most of their thoughts, most of the day. And I do mean most of the day. I know for a fact that there are some eaters that are consumed by CE. They read every word on every sight. Then they think, what did that post mean? Were they really trying to say this? What is the time limit of the next contest? How are they preparing the food? How should I train today? How is this person training. If I call this other person, maybe they could tell me someone about that person?
Anyway I had fun in PA. In addition to CVS, I hung out with my mother and father in law, I went to Bailey's soccer game, Noah's football game, a local fair, Costco to buy the shed I have been shopping for 8 years for and dinner with Mom and Dad. Thanks Mom and Dad. All in all a great day. Too bad I couldn't also sneak some grits in there.
I have been laying low for a some time recovering from the Nathans hoopla. All in all it was something that I was happy to be a part of. There is so much stuff going on surrounding that day that it really is a little overwhelming. So many people trying to do some many things. Amazing the show gets aired with all of the things that has to go right.
I am off to work on the 26th. I get to cross off another state in both my personal life and my CE life. I have never been to Oklahoma to compete or visit. I am looking forward to it. This contest is at the Cherokee Casino just outside of Tulsa, OK. I am excited to compete in a casino based on American Indian heritage. I am a small part Native American, of the Miami tribe originally based in Northern Indiana. Interestingly they were forced to move to northeastern Oklahoma in the mid 1800s. Since Tulsa is in northeastern OK, I may actually be competing against a very distant relative. That would be cool.
So if they are any people of Miami descent going to the contest, come up and say hi. I will dedicate by first BBQ brisket sandwich to our common forefathers.
6/28
Very busy of late. Dance recitals, baseball playoffs, yardwork... All that is my life outside of CE. All of you readers - Mom, Dad and anyone else want to hear about CE. OK.
The Nathan's hotdog eating contest is almost here. The finals are only days away. The big change this year is bringing the contest down to only ten minutes from the 12 minutes it has been since I started in CE years ago. There are all sorts of rumours, however I think it was because the almost super-human eater, Takeru threw up twice in the last two years. This is something that rarely ever happens to any professional eater during a contest, let alone our superstar. Regardless, the contest really is different.
I have always found that eating the Nathan's hotdogs to be the hardest and most nauseating contest. During the contest it is very rough, as the taste just kind of builds and builds and builds. After a while, the taste seems like it is seared to your tongue and it will never go away. I am sure that one hotdog would be considered delicious by just about everyone in the entire US, but after 25 or so, they don't taste quite the same. Usually I block out almost any taste in a contest. You just pick the food up and eat it. I can't for Nathan's. It just doesn't work.
Then you get to experience the fun after the contest when all of those dogs are just sitting there in your stomach. For me it starts about 30 minutes or so afterwards. Burps just show up out of nowhere and they do not smell pretty. About the same time I feel totally exhausted as my stomach starts its battle versus the dogs. About 2 hours afterwards is when my stomach really starts roaring. It is almost like it produces so much stomach acid for the battle, that it really aches. I have found some antacid helps at this point. This continues about 8 - 9 hours until something happens, the acid and stomach start to win and beat down the invading hotdogs. At that point the discomfort starts to go away. At this time, you start to think that you might do the contest again next year.
All that said, I was estactic when I heard the 10 minute news. Two less minutes of eating agony. There is absolutely no downside to this for me. Heck, make the contest 1 minute for all I care.
I think the telecast will start at noon on July 4th and the eating will start around 12:40 pm.
As for my goals for the contest: Do more then my best (38). I would also like to eat my age in hotdogs. I am approximately 41 3/4 so it would be pretty cool to do that. For me this contest is about having some fun and seeing people I have not seen in a while.
This contest was considered by all to be our Super Bowl of CE. It is huge, tons of people and live TV. After experiencing the contest the last three years and the Krystal Finals the last three years, I would say that Krystal is now our Super Bowl. I know other eaters that are saying the same thing. It doesn't really matter though as everyone has their own opinion. Regardless, they are both still our big two events. I think you all know which one I would prefer to win. Give me a K - R - Y - S - T -A - L.
Good luck to all of the eaters. See you all this week. Can't wait to meet some of the new folks.
5/25
Yesterday was a fun day. I arrived at the Philly Qualifier with Noah and Bailey at about 10 sharp. We wanted to get there early to make sure we were able to do any crafts and face paint activities before the crowds showed up. We were able to make a hotdog pin, a hotdog visor, get some temp tatoos, ballon animals and do the hotdog limba. So before any Nathan's activities satrted, we already had a blast. I was doing the crafts for Molly as she had a big pool party commitment that did not allow her to make her 6th consecutive Philadelphia Qualifier yes 6th. She is only 6 but she was born in March and she has never missed this contest.
The neat eating contest started the Nathan's stuff. Bailey entered again this year. She is a regular in this contest. She must have the gift though as she always seems to win these things. Of course she has tied all of the othe contestants each year, but it still is first place. In my previous 5 Philly Qualifiers, I have never won. I think I came in 3rd, 3rd?, 3rd, 2nd, and 2nd. So the pressure was really on her this year to defend her title and pull into a tie with Kobayashi. She came through and won her 6th consecutive Philadelphia neat eating contest. She finished in a 20 way tie for first place. Remember that this title will go along with all of her other neat eating titles that she has earned at Molly Pitcher, Shea Stadium, and possibly some mall in NJ and Atlanta Zoo - too many to remember. Anyway next year she will go for her 7th straight. Is there a little Joey Chestnut out there that can take the tile from her (an all of the other kids that show up that day)?
Next we went on to the Speed eating contest. In attendance were two of Juliet clients from MD, Pete Miernicki, Sean Gordon (soon to be ranked), Bill Myers, Russ Keeler and local favorite Dave "The Dumpster" Moyer. Dave is about 10x more well known in my hometown than I am. This guy is a celebrity! He brought a huge crew on top of the usual large crowd he draws anywhere he goes.
I found out a couple of things before the contest. The first was that the plant that manufactures the hotdogs for Sam's Club, only makes the skinless variety. So all of the Sam's Club contests will use the skinless ones in the qualifiers. Second Randy informed me of a new 3 cup rule for the qualifiers. I was a little surprised at this rule, but it was implemented at the start of this season. When I got to the table I saw I had 6 cups or so in front of me - I guess for two eaters that were full of water. I just dumped some of them out and left the others with the water in them.
I had learned in my first Nathan's contest at Molly Pitcher in 2002, that water is really not the best choice to use in a Nathan's contest. Some people brought their own stuff to use that day. Good idea. Now I bring whatever is on sale at Amelias. I think it was lemonade. Can't wait for the clear fruit punch to go back on sale! Some eaters on the circuit use certain drinks to be cool. Everyone knows that Pat Bertoletti only uses red fruit punch so his hands and arms get stained. Then while sitting around the airport, girls will ask him what happened. Then he goes into this "Oh that, that's just something that happens when you are the #2 ranked eater in the World like I am. Did I mention that I beat Kobayashi twice last fall and I beat Chestnut just the other day?" I don't get why girls don't see right through that. I guess the mohawk hypnotizes them or something.
Anyway, back to the contest. Nathan's switched vendors this year to Schmidts. I noticed that they sell them at Costco. Our buns were very dry from sitting out and the dogs were cold. They were cooking them on a small grill at 10 when I arrived. I would prefer fresh buns and hot, hotdogs, but it really doesn't matter as we all ate the same thing. The contest went fairly well and I seemed to be rolling along. I noticed thought that I was hearing EVERYTHING. I could not block out anything at all. This really slows you down. I could hear every word from George. My kids came through loud and clear. I could hear Sherrie Russo, Rick the Manager and tons of crowd people. Lots of people were yelling lots of things. Not just to me, to everyone. There was a lot of cheering going on and I heard every word. I actually kind of enjoyed the moment, something I never wanted to do before as it really slows you down.
Going in I did not know what to expect. You always want to do your personal best. My previous best was 35 last year at the finals. So anything higher than that would be great in 10 minutes. I hit 35 around 9:15 or so. At that point I realized that I have a shot at the great Sonya Thomas' 12 minute Philly Qualifier record of 36 1/2. I was able to pass that. Who knows what she could have done yesterday though as she is an extremely tough competitor that seems to have another gear when she really needs it. That would have been a real battle. One that I have lost many a time in the past, too many to post hear as it is just too huge a number. I am approx 0 and 1, 371 against Sonya in hotdogs. Maybe this year...(I have only said that for years now).
Back to the story. Right after the contest I hear someone saying he is going to throw up or something. A lady was all I know. No, just wanted to try to manuever the HDB in my mouth as I was very low on liquids and I did not want to waster the drops I had left.
I then took many pictures with foreign visitors. I got some "Good show mate!" lines from some. Very funny. Then I was interviewed by a local radio station - KYW. It took me quite some time to find that interview today, but I got an email with a link in it. Somehow it was posted on youtube. I was surprised to see my kids being interviewed. I had always thought that someone had to give permission to interview your kids. I know that a fan may just so happen to take their picture and post it, but a major newstation? I would have asked my kids first on the side and then if they wanted to do it, I would have let them. Adults can tend to push kids into these things. Therefore I am not really impressed by Hadas Kuznits. Come on it is not like you did not know who their dad was, you interviewed me.
After the contest, Randy came up and told me that they are shipping the hotdogs for the winners to their house this year. That makes it nice and easy! I have to clear up some freezer space as I just hit a huge sale on Boca products and I bought about 70 boxes.
I do not know the official results, but I do know that Sean "Flash" Gordon finished 2nd with 20. Russ Keeler finished 3rd with 17. These are really good numbers on these slow hotdogs. I do not know other results as my memory is poor right after contests. I do know that Wild Bill probably has the exact results as he always does. He was actually writing down everyones names as they got introduced. Thank you Bill for doing this thankless task. You really help to fill a void in the statistics department. Someday I hope that we can get to the point where all numbers are reported for all contestants. I know that it is a time consuming process, especially when it has to be weighed. With the time that people put into travelling to and competing in the contest, that would be a welcome addition to the existing results.
Thank you to all of the people that came out. I look forward to representing Philadelphia on the 4th.
For the eaters out there, I will see you at pizza!
5/18
Houston was the best. The festival was great, a real family atmosphere filled with some pumped up fans. It was great to see so many eaters, especially ones that I do not see very often. Syko rocked out the best CE outfit that I have seen to date. Chris got to eat some of his native food. Damon was there representing 'norleans. I also got to eat next to Nasty Nathan for the first time. Turns out I am more nasty than Nathan as I think I hit him with some empty cups in the foot a couple of times. I apologized afterwards as there really is no excuse for that. I was trying to throw them on the ground and step on them but a couple may have rolled his way.
Aside from some of the best food I have ever had in a contest, I enjoyed the people even more. What a great group of friendly people. I am sorry that I was not able to stay Saturday night. Count me in next year, alright Dimitri! Opa! (I hope I spelled and used that last word right).
5/12
Can you say gyros? I know I can. Can you eat gyros? I know I can. But will that be enough? See you Saturday.
2/29
It has been almost 8 months now since the IFOCE has come out with a realistic list of new rankings. Yes I am still ranked 7th but I do not know for how long I will hold that ranking. Unfortunately the last ranking was right after Nathan's and that seems to me to be a long time between rankings. I like to stay active in CE, but I can only do what I can. Lets look at the last contests. I was not able to participate in the noodle contest, as that was invitation only. I competed in Krystals. I competed in Wing Bowl. Both of these I was able to do a qualifier to get in to. I was online to sign up for Pork Skins, but had to go to bed after 10:15 EST and the contest was still not posted. I passed on Jalepenos for many reasons as well as Matzoh balls, asparagus and corn. Those 4 were all my choice.
I really prefer contests that are not subjective. For example, you either eat a Krystal hamburger or you don't. There is no decision whether you bit the pepper close enough to the stem or not. Therefore I hope to get another contest in before the new rankings come out in July 2008. I want to make sure that I am able to keep a top ranking just in case a new opportunity comes along.
That said, I am looking forward to this CE season in 2008. I think that you will find me finishing exactly where you thought I would when I get a chance to compete. I also look forward to the true comraderie after the eating contests that exists amoung some o the eaters. I can't wait to share a laugh with the people that truly enjoy the sport for the sport as we watch the same people over and over walk away from the bar tab. Too funny! I can't wait to compete!!!
Well, if you like hamburgers give 'em a try sometime. Me, I can't usually eat 'em 'cause my girlfriend's a vegetarian. Which more or less makes me a vegetarian, but I sure love the taste of a good burger. You know what they call a Quarter Pounder with Cheese in France?
2/17/08
I believe in taking care of myself, in a balanced diet, in a rigorous exercise routine. In the morning, if my face is a little puffy, I'll put on an ice pack while doing my stomach crunches. I can do a thousand now. After I remove the icepack, I use a deep pore-cleanser lotion. In the shower, I use a water-activated gel cleanser, then a honey-almond body scrub, and on the face an exfoliating gel scrub. Then I apply an herb mint facial masque which I leave on for ten minutes while I prepare the rest of my routine. I always use an after-shave lotion with little or no alcohol because alcohol dries your face out and makes you look older. Then moisturizer, then an anti-aging eye balm, followed by a final moisturizing "protective" lotion.
2/10/08
A month between updates - too long. A lot has happened in the last month. I guess the biggest thing is Wing Bowl. After qualifying with the eggs, I attended a Wing Off at the Trappe Tavern. The Wing Off used similar sized wings as they had at the Wing Bowl. The judge was also a Wing Bowl judge, so I wanted to get into this Wing Off in the worst way. I thought it would be great practice for me as I would be judged the same as in Wing Bowl. Also I had not eaten a wing since the couple I had after the Krystal Finals.
In the last round, one eater did not show, so they let me compete although I would not be eligible to win. I ate 81 wings in 10 minutes and got a score of 76. I was happy as the first round of Wing Bowl lasts 14 minutes and 76 would have made the 2nd round last year, something I have yet to do.
Then I went to the Sixers game with Erik, Joey, Pat, Rick the Manager, Dave the Dumpster and Noah. We actually managed to work our way to center court as Erik competed vs. Pete and two others. The contest took so long that the Sixers and Raptors came out to warm up for the 2nd half. I had Noah stand in front of two players and I took his picture. I felt like we were going to get arrested or something. That was fun.
Back to Wing Bowl, my float this year was a huge improvement thanks to J.D. I thought it looked awesome. Thanks J.D. Thanks Keith for assisting with the assembly. Our procession this year was the most fun of my 3 Wing Bowls that I ate in. I did not have to worry about my wife and/or mom getting hit by items launched in the air. We had 20 cans of silly string and had a great time pounding each other.
I was excited to see that I had a good Wingette like Sara. This was her first time, but she was there to assist and I really apreciate that. I am sorry that I did not get to thank her. Thanks Sara.
This was my best Wing Bowl as far as totals go. I had the same judge that I had in the Wing Off at the Trappe. (I am not naming names on purpose). The eating went very fast. I found out a good technique about 10 minutes in or so. At the end of the 14 minutes, I had eaten 108 wings. I was nervous that would not be enough as these wings were much faster then the cold rocks I had last year.
We waited for a while and then a guy came around and told us if we were in the 2nd round or not. I was told no, so I picked up my stuff. My judge came by and asked where I was sitting for the 2nd round. I said I wasn't, I didn't make it. He said "Those guys must have eaten a _ _ _ _ load of wings (refering to the other eaters). I asked him how he scored me. He said 17 and 18s on each plate (5 full plates). I was satisfied that I did not make it as that put me at 17+17+17+17+18 - worst case = 86 plus 6 on the last plate = 92 total. I assumed 92 would not be enough. When they announced that 70 was the 10th place total, I thought they they had just made a mistake. Nope. Next year...
After the event was over, we then went out as a big group and had a good day. And then we went out the next night...
1/8/08
Just bought my first Kobayashi card today. I went to a local card shop, Carl's Cards & Collectibles in Havertown, PA. I thought I would see if I could get a Kobayashi card as that is always a good card to get. I spoke with Carl and sure enough he had the 2006 Topps Allen & Ginter #312 in stock. What are the odds of that? I noticed that actually they have a great variety of cards and collectibles there (I guess that is where they got the name from). There are not many of these kind of stores left anymore with this kind of variety. I noticed that he does a lot of signings. If you are a Flyers fan, you will appreciate his Clarke and Parent autos. Those guys were huge when I was growing up.
Anyway I thought I would give credit to a great local store, one that I will make sure to frequent in the future. By the way, I noticed that Carl's wife, Sue, has a Hometown Embroidery shop. I am thinking about getting some embroidery to wear at a contest to pay homage to the great Don "Moses" Lerman.
Congrats to the latest pro qualifier Dr Bigtime. Juris, everytime I am in Nashville, I make sure to say hi. You can't call when you are in Philly? Just kidding, congrats.
1/7/08
I was able to successfully complete my eating stunt today to qualify for my 3rd Wing Bowl contest. The eggs were not as fast as I had anticipated them to be. Overall the eating went very well. It is a strange feeling for me to be eating in my work pants and shoes. I was very paranoid about not spilling a drop as I didn't want to look like a total moron at work. My family said that it was too late for that. My haircut does that already.
Yes "Humble" Bob is down to his last couple of hairs on his head. Yes they are very long. This does not add up to a combover though! I was accused of just that on the air today. That does it. I need to defend what hair pride I have left and do something. Something like get a haircut. I hate getting my hair cut though. It is so annoying. I hate just waiting there to be called over. That control of your life that you just hand right over to some stranger.
That is why I refuse to do it. You can not make me get my haircut professionaly. I have my kids cut it. Noah has been doing it for 5 years now. They love it. I gt out the cutters and put some random attachment on it. Then the three of them take turns cutting what few hairs I have. After they have had their way, my wife comes in and tries to salvage something from it. What an Angel she must be. Luckily for me I either have stunningly good looking facial features to compensate for the horrible hair or maybe she just rights me off as her good Samaratin deed for her life.
Good luck to the rest of the pros in qualifying for Wing Bowl. I think there are about 5 left.
1/4/08
During this break, I have had the opportunity to talk about CE with some of the other eaters. We discussed the contests that we liked, that were tough, hard to get to... One thing that came up was what we would do if we were running the organization. After these talks and some time to ponder that question myself and this one thing that I would do if I were in charge.
Change how the Wild Card works for Nathan's. I think the original intention was good. Now it seems to have became slightly dated. I prefer it change to the format that the Krystal contest uses. At Krystals, you only have to have a good score at one qualifier. Example: Badlands Booker in the first year. With Nathans, you have to go to three contests and have the best average over those three contests. This could cause an issue. For example: 2007 Rich L. Qualifier #1 Pat 46, Rich 33 Qualifier # 2 Joey 59.5, Rich 33. At this point he loses to two of the highest totals ever. What happens if he has a reversal in his 3rd Qualifier? Is he out of the Finals? I say no. If his 33 is one of the two highest non winning totals, then let him in.
12/30/07
What a great vacation I am having. I am really enjoying spending time with the kids. Sure it is great playing with the new Wii and getting crushed by Noah in just about every game we have. He just loves beating me. Bailey has taken to Guitar Hero like Joan Jett. She never touched our older game systems. She had zero interest. She is all over Guitar Hero though. Molly loves her Game Boy Advance system that Noah gave her. She has no idea what she is doing but she is really pressing those buttons.
I am having the most fun doing the little things though. Reading to the kids. Planting 10 different types of seeds for indoor gardens. Actually having time to talk to my wife. Just her and me having an adult conversation that we do not feel rushed over. I like that the best.
I hope that both of the people that read this site had as good of a holiday as I have had so far.
As far as eating goes. My stunt has been approved for Wing Bowl. I will be attempting 53 large hard boiled eggs in 15 mintues. Most likely on 1/7/08. I like hard boiled eggs so it should be fun. It will be even more fun going to work right after that.
Not much other eating news going on. Looking forward to competing again.
12/2/07
Today is going to be a good one. Bailey and I are going to turn on the Krystal Square Off IV 50" Plasma TV for the first time. We can't wait to see what it looks like on. This is a big step up from our current TV.
Yesterday we bought the Krystal Square Off IV new piano. It is a Yamaha brand piano and it should get delivered in a couple of weeks.
I just love the Krystal Square Off. I think next year we may plan a family vacation around it.
11/17/07
Happy Birthday Dad! You were my eating inspiration growing up!
Posted some new pics thanks to Valerie Bromann (www.valbromann.com). Why didn't you stop by to get a picture with me after the contest?
I just got a great letter in the mail that listed 7,500 reasons that the Krystal Square Off IV was the best Competitive Eating Contest in the World. Each and every one of them was very convincing I am sold!
11/8/07
Did not get to the shed. Triple coupon week is worse then I thought. I am compelled to go until I am out of coupons. Ziplocs did not show up. That is OK, I have a line on some free deodorant and toothbrushes starting on Friday. I will also hit up CVS to gather up some ECBs for the most important shopping day of the year. Those in the know realize that it is just a hyped day. We get these prices or better year round. I have the feeling that a BIG LCD TV is in my near future. I just LOVE that Krystal contest!
11/5/07
Anyway, I also have been busy trying to build up my bank on Need for Speed Hot Pursuit 2. Those cars don't buy themselves you know. Noah is not helping like he should and I have to earn it all myself. I am tempted to just buy the Corvette or Mustang right now, but I am holding fast for the more expensive ones.
Even though these two things are really important, I have to work on the new wall near the shed Tuesday. I need to bang that out before it gets too cold.
10/20/07
I have just received word that Humblitis is spreading. There was a bad outbreak earlier this year at certain contests. Now I have received confirmation that at least one eater has caught it for the Krystal Finals. Relax everyone. 39 Krystals in 2 minutes really isn't that many.
On another note, I was thinking about what I should list my occupation as for the Krystal Finals. I will leave it up to a vote. Email me your vote. Feel free to vote for any choice as there is no truth requirement needed.
1) IT Manager This is what I really do full time
2) Philanthropist Wouldn't that be cool
3) Architect If it was good enough for Art Vandalay, then why not me?
What should I list my weight and height on my release form as?
1) 6' 2" 265 lbs This what I am
2) 5' 11" 330 lbs This is what will be my listed TV stats
3) 5' 2" 165 lbs This would make many other eaters under 5 feet tall when you see us together
How should I be introduced?
1) As the 2 minute Krystal hamburger World Record Holder from Royersford, PA. What I am.
2) As the man without an epiglotis from Philadelphia PA.
3) As the man who weighs 360 lbs, 1 lb for every degree of the Earth from Philadelphia PA.
Send your emails now.
10/16/07
I forgot to mention - congrats to Pat Bertoletti on winning $25,000 in the chicken wing eating contest in Las Vegas. Pat I have some good investment ideas for you. I think you should get into some "Humble" Bob memorabilia.
Today's tip is how to pronounce "Humble" Bob's last name. First it is spelled Shoudt. Notice that there are 6 letters. All of them are there for a purpose. They all contribute in some way to the proper pronunciation of my name. Most people think it is down right hilarious to just randomly drop one of the letters when they say my name. They think they are so clever when they drop the D and say "shout". This was very popular in elementary school. Those 2nd graders are so smart and original. Fast forward to today. People still think they came up with this.
I say my name in a similar way to those that say the name Stoudt. Everyone can pronounce the D in that name. A lot of times people will say "shout?" Is that right? Haha shout. You make me wanna shout. Haha. Then they will go Bob SHOUT (saying SHOUT very loudly). Then they will say Bob SHOUT - you get it? - SHOUT. Again that was elementary school. But a girl in high school was so sure that she thought that up. I even had a coworker a couple of years ago that would have bet her life that she made it up. She asked if I ever heard that one before. When I told her I first heard that 30+ years ago, she thought I was just trying to insult her. Are you serious?
I always thought it would be funny if I selected one letter from someones name and just dropped it out when I said their name. I think they would think I am strange. Why stop at one though. How about I drop off 1 or 2, whatever will make for a better, new name. Maybe a Take Kobayashi, a Joey Chetnut, a Pat Bertolei... This is too much fun, I can see why people do it now. So everyone at Krystal Finals, pronounce my name as you will, right or wrong. If you see me talking to myself and laughing, I am not laughing at you, I am just laughing at your funny new name I just thought up.
10/14/07
Just got back from Krystal land. Boy those burgers go down easy. I met Krystal Manager David Miller of Krystal Store "Krystal ATL042" aka Store # 320. What a nice guy he is. He really went above and beyond to ensure my Krystals were just right. He also made sure that I had enough things to help me replicate my training back home.
This is a man that should be promoted to Regional Manager. Who is with me? David Miller from Store #320 for Regional Manager!
10/7/07
Just some random thoughts. "Humble" Bob has been married 17 years this weekend! Not bad! I owe it all to my wonderful wife. Thank you.
As for my next contest, I am not sure about that. We shall see.
9/29/07
Anyway I was so busy I did not even get to post about Kolaches. It was a lot of fun. What is the deal with the proze money though? I always thought that you should have the same breakdown between each place. It was like they were saying that there were two good eaters there. Then a second group of three good eaters. Then the rest. Really weird. Anyway I had a great time at the contest and afterwards. Somehow the prettiest girls in Houston are big CE fans and they came to the contest and hung out aftwerwards. The Kolache Factory crew was great. What a good company. If I lived in Houston I would send them my resume for sure. Thanks Kolache Factory!
Since my digital camera got stolen from the Nathan's Green Room aka the Nathan's loading dock that everyone seemed to have access to, I do not have any digital pictures from Houston or any of the other contests since July 4. So when I get my disposble camera developed I will try to post some Houston pics.
I missed the grits contest because my airfare was $470. Since "Humble" Bob pays his own airfare, he was in PA Saturday. But I am so glad that I did not go. It is always a bummer when you pay that much and the person next to you has that big "I flew free" smile. It is all good though. I know the deal and I choose to CVS in PA instead. Three XXL black tshirts, four bars of soap, a small gift for someone and 4 lemonades. Cost pre coupons $17.23 Total price after coupons = free. I absolutely LOVE CVS.
Another eater also told me a story about how CE was a mix of pro wrestling and pro boxing. He presented a fairly convincing argument. How it is mainly entertainment and controlled by Don King/McMahon. I do not know that I agree with him but it is always interesting to hear peoples ideas and how much time they spend thinking about CE. I do not think the IFOCE knows how much CE means to the eaters. It really consumes most of their thoughts, most of the day. And I do mean most of the day. I know for a fact that there are some eaters that are consumed by CE. They read every word on every sight. Then they think, what did that post mean? Were they really trying to say this? What is the time limit of the next contest? How are they preparing the food? How should I train today? How is this person training. If I call this other person, maybe they could tell me someone about that person?
Anyway I had fun in PA. In addition to CVS, I hung out with my mother and father in law, I went to Bailey's soccer game, Noah's football game, a local fair, Costco to buy the shed I have been shopping for 8 years for and dinner with Mom and Dad. Thanks Mom and Dad. All in all a great day. Too bad I couldn't also sneak some grits in there.