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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 - # 4 - I know
6/1/09
Just posted some videos on the main page. Check them out as these are "Humble" Bob exclusives. Had a great time at Mallie's !!! I can't wait to get back there. I had a great time. They really know how to put on an event there. If you are ever in the Southgate, Michigan area, you have to check this place out. This is right outside of Detriot. Mallie's They have tons of good food and lots of icy cold beverages. I think they have around 36 TVs in the place. Huge outside seating. Friendly employees. You will not be disappointed.
Calamari up next. Check out podtalker.com that is a good site to visit.
Back from a great weekend in DC after the funnel cake contest. We did a bunch of rides after funnel cake and I have to admit that standing up roller coaster really made me ill. But all is good now. Happy Memorial Day to all. Thank you to all veterans and their families !!!
5/6
Looks like for sure I am in gyros, hotdogs Allentown and funnel cake. I may be competing at calamari, not sure yet.
4/30
Lots of people asking, so here goes. I signed up for Dippin' Dots, Gyros, accepted at Nathan's Allentown, wait listed for Nathan's Atlantic City, Funnel Cake in VA, Calamari, accepted at Nathan's Queens.
4/6
I signed up for Allentown, Atlantic City, Queens, NY.
3/30
Only 160 days until the Competitive Eating Event of the Year - The Krystal SquareOff. Okay I just made up that number. But really, is there an event that even comes close to this one? I have almost recovered from my bitterly disappointing display of slow Krystal eating in last years finals. Unfortunately my predictions for the Finals were all too accurate. As I wrote here on this very page on 8/29 (see 8/29 below)
"This year I think the winning total will be 92 burgers. Second will be 90 burgers. Third will be 87 and fourth will be 84. You can take this to the bank."
Well the top four ended up being 93, 85, 84 and 76. I messed up the numbers with the 76. Ouch it hurts just to type that. I feel my reasons for these numbers, as I listed on the post below, came true. 103 will never be touched again. This year I hope to regain some type of Krystal form and put on a better show. Way too early for a number prediction. Lets just say I am shooting for one more then everyone else.
In the mean time there are many, many warm up contests that offer lots of fun for the eaters and excitement for the CE fan. My next event will be funnel cakes. Who doesn't love funnel cakes? Everyone has eaten them. When people hear the numbers that are going to be put up, they are going to be amazed.
After that I am not sure what other foods I am going to eat. I know I will be eating hotdogs somewhere, just not sure yet. There is no Philly or QVC qualifier this year. Hmmm, maybe I will go to Minnesota. Word on the street is that will be the easy qualifier.
3/19
Had a great time at the Stroehmann Sandwich Slamm in NYC. I have always loved the bread and I got to compete with it. The Stroehmann's employees are every bit as good as their bread. Each one that I had a chance to talk to was nicer then the previous one. I wonder how long they could have kept that up? Well it lasted the entire contest and afterwards as well. I am sorry that I missed partaking in the buffet after the contest, but for some reason I wasn't very hungry. It did look good though.
I am going to be off until 4/11 in CA. See you there!
2/24
I am happy to announce that I have officially been named the 4th best Crawfish Eater in the history of the World. I was able to eat 2.83 pounds of crawfish meat (from whole crawfishes) in 12 minutes. Shocking I know, but it is true. Big thanks to the Showboat and the House of Blues for having us. I look forward to coming back again next year and participating in a different Mardi Gras food.
2/?
I am in for crawfish in Atlantic City. Should be interesting as I have never eaten one before. Hopefully I will eat a lot. I also signed up for the Stroehmann contest. Seeing as how I lived in PA Dutch country, I should be a shoo in to win this event.
2/9
Just put my first video up on youtube. I am eating 53 hardboiled eggs. Rick The Manager shot the video. See it HERE.
Some contests have just been announced for Major League Eating. I signed up for the one in Atlantic City. I am hoping to do at least three of the ones that have been talked about. We shall see what the schedule allows me to do.
I have been having a bunch of fun as of late but I am looking forward to competing in a contest soon. It was tough to watch the contest in Philly and not be involved. I would much rather be at the table, then down front watching.
As for all of the people who have contacted me from Upper Merion, thanks for some good memories. It has been interesting catching up with you.
11/8
Slow to update this site lately. I am making some updates and I now have all of my results up from 2008. Posted some new pics on the pics page. I will be putting up Krystal SquareOff V pics (ie pics from the greatest Competitive Eating contest EVER). In the mean time, please excuse me as I have been going to the movies a lot. Saw a sneak preview of Madagascar 2 on Wendesday and the girls loved it. I am going to go out to the movies again this Friday night.
9/12
With Kolaches being postponed, I was really looking forward to competing in the Harrah's Louisiana Downs World Grits Eating Championship in Bossier City. With Hurricane Ike, it was going to be a real challenge to get there. My best option was to fly into Little Rock, Arkansas and then drive to Bossier City. There would be nothing easy about it.
It was going to take multiple flights with long layovers. A vacation day from work. A massive drive to and from the contest in a rental car and then two nights of hotel rooms. With the success I have been having lately, I thought it would all be worth it. So I was deciding between a $680 flight and a $800 flight. Throw in the rental car and gas $150. Throw in airport parking in Philly $33. I was looking at $863 - $1,013 just to get there. Still no problem in my mind as first prize is $4,000 and that was the one I was going for. $2,000 and $1,500 for second and third kept me in positive territory.
Then the show stopper. When I called last night to get a room on Friday and Saturday, the cheapest I was quoted was $169.99 each night plus tax. I didn't even ask what the tax would be. I asked is this the least expensive room - maybe she thought I said most expensive. She confirmed it was correct.
I then went through all options, How about a AAA discount? No? Any discount? AARP, military, government? Nothing. Then I got to thinking...
Do you know that I am the number 5 ranked eater in the world and I currently have the longest current winning streak of any eater in the world? She was amazed by that fact. Wow, that is so neat, I always wondered how you guys do that sort of thing. I read about you guys... I was thinking to myself, "OK, I got her now. Maybe the second night free..." Then I woke up from this fantasy and she said that it would still be $169.99/night plus tax.
I said ""You want this contest to be legitimate right? You want the hottest eater on the circuit there right? You need me there. How about $99 / night tax included?" She laughed and said "Sorry sir, that is the best I can do for you, $169.99 /night plus tax.
Well since I had to pay for a room at probably $375/ two nights total + the other costs = $1,238 - $1,388 range for this contest = too much. Bottom line, a non discounted hotel room kept me away from the Grits Eating Title. Darn those room rates.
OK, to be fair maybe there was also going to be a half dozen other top ranked eaters there that may have caused me an additional challenge or six, but lets not talk about them. Lets focus more on the greatest Grits eater in the world being forced to sit on the sidelines this year. 25 lbs was a given, my only question was if I could top 27 lbs. Well there is always next year (assuming I can get a discounted room.)
Being a glamorous competitive eater sure isn't inexpensive.
9/4
This weekend I was able to compete in two contests that I have not competed in before. On Saturday I was in the Myrtle Beach World BBQ Eating Championship. These sandwiches consisted of pulled pork BBQ on a plain hamburger bun. The buns were 1.5 ounces each. The meat I would guess was about 2.5 – 3 ounces. That would put each sandwich at 4 – 4.5 ounces. I wish I could be a little more accurate, but that is a best guess scenario.
I got out to a quick start and was doing very well. Unfortunately I hit a wall and was hanging out for about 3 minutes enjoying the sights and sounds of Myrtle Beach. Basically doing everything you could do, without eating. I then came across a different technique and was able to do 6 – 7 sandwiches in the last minute. Unfortunately I was too far behind and was not again to regain the lead I had lost.
The 46 sandwiches come to 184 – 207 ounces or 11.5 to 12.94 lbs in 10 minutes. I am happy with that total. Joey and Pat were able to pull away, showing why they are top ranked. Hall also put up a great number with 34 sandwiches.
I enjoyed my time in Myrtle Beach. The air-conditioned trailer that served as our green room was much appreciated. The organizers were very helpful and made us feel like actual celebrities.
Most of all it was great to see an old friend and his beautiful family – the Markley’s.
Next up was the Kings Island Skyline Chili Spaghetti Eating Championship. Upon entering the park, Joey’s picture was everywhere promoting the days contest. It was great to see Competitive Eating headlining a large establishment like King’s Island. I would say that we got top billing over Pete Rose who was there that same day. This is Cincinnati folks!
We were eating on the International Stage which is a very nice, covered theatre in the park. Yes this is the exact same stage that Carmen Elecktra appeared just two days earlier.
The employees were very carefully measuring out the food. Each tray got the exact same amount. 8 ounces of spaghetti noodles, 6 ounces of chili (no beans but a touch of chocolate, dense not runny) and then 2 ounces of shredded cheese on top. In all of my contests, I have never seen such exact measuring. I can say that each eater got the exact same food. Great job guys.
The park provided what seemed like 175 people to assist the eaters with whatever we needed. I was actually embarrassed with how much service they were giving me. Thank you so much for everything.
In the contest I got off to a very quick start. This time I was able to hold on to the lead. I was able to do this despite having to eat next to Tim “Gravy” Brown who almost made me laugh about 10 times during the contest. I never ate next to someone who talked that much during a contest. I don’t remember him doing it at Nathan’s.
It came down to the scales. Mine was weighed first. I saw what it was. Then Joey’s was weighed. After what seemed like forever, the scale showed that I won by 5 ounces. It was close.
After the contest Pat, Joey, Gravy and Gravy’s Groupie(s) went on several roller coasters. That was a challenge at times, but we all made it through OK.
King’s Island and Skyline Chili (which I thought was very tasty indeed) thanks for a great day. Hope to see you next year.
8/29
I had the best weekend in Chattanooga. I hope that every eater gets to experience what I did at some point in their eating career. The Krystal company once again continued to not only set the gold standard for eating contests, but to continue to raise it each and every year.
What other contest has a ceremonial lighting of a grill and then a parade/grill relay? That was fantastic. I was honored to be the person to light the grill and also the last person in the grill relay. Actually, I was honored to be a part of the whole thing. Really I was.
I get a lot of enjoyment when I get to see how things work. I was able to get on different TV sets and watch as the personalities read from the teleprompters and would switch from camera to camera. I watched a radio host masterfully run his board to go from commercial to live talking. I think it is awesome when you see someone who has total control over their job. Watching them move as if they were born to do what they are doing. Regardless what the job is, I think that it is very impressive.
The Krystal SquareOff V is going to be the best one yet. I like how it is going to be on FSN South. Of course at first I was disappointed that it would not be on ESPN. After talking to the Krystal people, I understood why they choose that path. First, it is where their customers are. The show is twice as long. They also have weekly updates after each Qualifier. So by the time the Finals comes around, everyone in the South who follows sports will know about the contest. Great exposure for both Krystals and Competitive Eating.
There are other changes coming this year. At least one of them is a CE first. This one puts us right there with the other major sports leagues. I think it will show exactly where Krystals and the IFOCE is as far as popularity. In order to pull this one off successfully, you need to have a big demand from your fan base. I can’t wait for everyone to see it. I can’t tell you what it is, but you will see at the Finals.
As far as my qualifier went, it was great to see many of these eaters. I was placed between Larry “The Legend” and Super Paul Bone Breaker Big Mouth Barlow and there is not better place to be. I could feel their support as I thought I was going to die. Paul actually encouraging me with words “You can’t die in front of the cameras, you will ruin Competitive Eating”. Nah, he really was cheering me on. Thanks guys.
I had a very rough day. Fortunately for me there are many people who think I was just taking it easy and not wanting to show what I could do. Trying to hide my actual number from the other eaters so they would be surprised at the Finals. Yeah that is it. I can really eat 200 of these things.
The truth is, I have never felt worse for a contest. Normally, for a Saturday contest, I will eat a very light dinner on Thursday night. That would be mostly of four Boca burgers (70 calories each) and maybe a piece of fruit. Then I will have two protein shakes on Friday and then eat in the contest on Saturday. This puts me around 43 – 46 hours without any food. This helps me to clean out my system and to go into the contest hungry.
So in trying to put up a big number, I decided to do one better. On Wednesday at 5 pm I had my burgers and no fruit. Thursday two shakes, Friday two shakes with the last one at 5 pm. This put me at 70.5 hours without food and 22.5 hours without anything. Saturday I woke up feeling what I thought was very tired. Wanting to have a big day, I just laid in bed until about 1:30 when I got up to get dressed. I also made sure not to drink anything so I would have even more room for the burgers.
As I was walking to the contest carrying my two gallons of beverages, I was very light headed. The two gallons seemed like twenty gallons. The ¾ of a mile seemed like 34 miles. When Brad spotted me and offered me a ride, I took it in a heartbeat.
After arriving at the contest, the heat started to get to me and I started to feel even worse. I had to go to my patented ice towels early. I had trouble even standing to listen to Kenny go over the rules. The world was starting to act differently. I then knew that this was not going to go well.
I started to drink backstage to try to get some fluids moving in me. It was too late.
When I got on stage, my entire focus was on just making sure I stayed upright. That was a chore right there. Then 3, 2, 1, SquareOff! I pick up my first two burgers. The right-hand worked fine. The left-hand would not fit into the cup. I looked over and saw that the burger was still in the box. This is going to be the longest 8 minutes ever.
Watching a video of the contest, I see how much time I spent with both hands on the table holding myself up. That is not what I should be doing. I should be throwing these things down.
My preparation is what messed me up. It is all my fault and I take 100% of the blame. I have learned my lesson.
In the end I was very happy that I won, but disappointed in my total. The best analogy that I can give is that of a decathlete that is good at all of the events, but is really good in one particular one. Krystals is my really good event. For me not to demonstrate my abilities in a Krystal contest, it is disappointing. I do however have a second chance on September 28, 2008. I intend to take full advantage of that opportunity.
That leads me to making a major correction. When I was put on the spot in many interviews, I said that I thought it would take 120 Krystals to win this year. That is a number that Pat and I have spoken about on several occasions. I truly thought that was accurate. However, I am going to dramatically lower that number.
After doing much research and seeing new footage of the last two Krystal Finals, that number is way too high. I was lucky to bump into two different people after my qualifier. One person worked for a local TV station and the other was a big fan. The TV station person provided me with footage of the last two Finals. It is great stuff. The first one shows Joey and Kobe for the entire contest. The camera is trained on both of them. For the exception of a couple of times that a judge momentarily moved in front of them, you can see every burger that they ate. You can even see the burger that Joey did not dunk in the last minute that threw him out of his rhythm and secured the victory for Kobe. Their footage from last year was a little wider shot, but just as clear. The quality is great. The fan was able to provide me with his footage of last years Finals where he too kept a camera almost the entire time zoomed in to the middle of the table. A couple of times he went wide, but only for a few seconds.
Using this footage and a lot of time, I now have a very accurate count of the five times that people have eaten 90 + Krystal burgers in 8 minutes. I know where each person was at the one minute mark, two minute mark…how long to get to 20 burgers, 40 burgers…where they slowed down and what at rate they slowed down. I charted this info and it provided some interesting information. Most of which I do not care to share as I think it is too valuable. I do not need my competitors knowing this stuff.
I will share some info though. With the exception of Joey having an issue not dunking the burger, there were no other issues in the five 90+ runs. Zero. There was not one time where there was an issue taking a burger out of the box. Not one. These runs were perfect. They could not have gone better.
When you are eating in such a short contest, there is no time for you to correct any mistakes. Mess up and your total is lower. In longer contest, you are actually eating so slow at the end, it doesn’t really matter what happened at the beginning. There is plenty of time to make up for it.
These two Krystal Finals took place later in the year then this years Finals. At least a full month later. This years contest will be much warmer and more humid. This will cause the buns to come out of the boxes much slower. There will be issues with some of the burgers not coming out. The eaters will have to spend time dealing with this. This will eat up valuable contest time.
Last year was the quickest start. Two eaters were under three seconds a burger in the early going and another was just a tiny bit behind them. Again that was with no box issues. Any issues in these critical initial two minutes will absolutely guarantee that you will not be able to put up a big number. I am going on the record right now, that there will be issues. Every eater will have box issues this year.
In addition I took my practice splits from last year and compared them to my time in my one practice run before my qualifier and the one I did last week. I am far behind my times from last year. It is not even close. I realized that last year might have been my magical Krystal season. That time when all of my training and skills came together and I was able to achieve more then what I should have.
That is not to say that I am not going to work to do well in this years Finals. I am going to give it my all. However, when I look at the footage and my records, it finally dawned on me. Last years Final may never be repeated. Do to the later, cooler, quicker environment that the contest was held and the fact that Joey, Pat and I peaked at the same time, we were able to do something that I do not think will be repeated.
No eater will break the 100 burger barrier. Joey Chestnut’s 103 burgers will be talked about in the same sentence as Bob Beamon’s long jump record. Beamon was able to use the thin air in Mexico City and the maximum allowable tail wind to take his personal best long jump of 27 ft 4 in., to do something that he never should have been able to do. He jumped 29 ft 2 ½ in. He became the first jumper ever to go over 28 feet and 29 feet and he did it in the same jump. After that jump, he never again jumped over 27 feet. The term Beamonesque was coined to describe spectacular feats. Last year Joey was Beamonesque.
This year I think the winning total will be 92 burgers. Second will be 90 burgers. Third will be 87 and fourth will be 84. You can take this to the bank.
No one will be anywhere near 100. The perfect storm of Krystal IV will not be repeated.
So I formally apologize for the 120 prediction, it is not going to happen. Even the total from third place last year is not going to happen. In a sport where records are cherished and have come to be expected at each contest, that streak is over. Hate to disappoint any fans out there, but these are the facts.
That said, most eaters do not care about records, they care about that belt. I want that belt. I will do everything I can to get that belt. If/when I get it, I am not giving it back. I will run off of the back of the stage and continue running just a fast as I can with a belly full of burgers. No one will catch me. They will call me the Gingerbread Man.
Krystals, don’t say I didn’t warn you about keeping that belt. I may be clutching that belt from a jail cell, but I am not giving it back.
8/19
I had another great time this past weekend at the Ash Creek Rib Eating Championship. Not only is the food amoung the best in the circuit, but the people are as well. Next year I am going to try to stay the night and make the most of it. It was great being in a contest with so many pro eaters. That field was absolutely stacked of people on the circuit. There was probably about 13 or 14 people that do these contests at least somewhat regularly. This does not happen at many contests as the travel expenses usually make it cost prohibitive for this many eaters. I think the combination of a northeast location and a great contest makes it so popular. This is my third year and I was finally able to win after two, third place finishes. I was also pleased to find out that both Joey and I broke the existing Ash Creek record that he set in 2006.
I am off to Krystal Land on Thursday night. Maybe I can get a taste of Krystals then. I have my eight minute Qualifier on Saturday. It looks like there will be a couple of regulars there and some new people. I am looking forward to seeing them all and having a good contest. Actually I am looking forward to seeing everyone but Super Paul Bone Breaker Barlow. I get along with most eaters, but this guy just plain has it out for me. How else can you explain him keeping me off of his best dressed eater list year after year?
8/9
The Olympics started last night. I had a moment of sadness when I realized what a waste it was that Competitive Eating was not included. However that did not last long as I realized that Competitive Eating does not need the Olympics, if anything the Olympics needs us. This years Krystal SquareOff is going to be BIGGER then the Olympics. I can't wait. All along I was hoping to go to a late qualifier and use that as a tune up for the Finals. When I read that this years contest was going to be bigger and better then last years, well I do not know if I can take the chance of waiting that long and possibly missing the most important Competitive Eating contest of the season. I think I am going to try to qualify as early as possible. This way if I do not win my qualifier, I have others that I can give it another shot. With only 7 qualifiers this year it is going to be very hard to get into this prestigious event.
I think this is something that many people forget when they discuss this contest. Sure, some no-name kid with a bad haircut did 103 burgers last year and won the contest. That is what people will tell you. Well I want you to know that I think that each and every eater that makes it to that stage is a winner. They accomplished something that few people can do. They made it to the Final Table at the Krystal SquareOff. There is no table I would rather be. Everyone at that table this year will be able to tell their grandkids the story over and over. "Grandpa/Grandma please tell us the story of when you ate in the Finals of the greatest eating contest in the history of Competitive Eating."
My goal for this year is that when they tell the story of that special day, somewhere in the story they mention that all of the eaters at that table were amoung the greatest eaters of their time. How they cherished that day. How it is a day that they will never forget. How when their joints are aching and they are struggling to make it thorough a tough situation that they think back upon that day and a smile always comes to their face. The Grandkids will be riveted to the story, wanting to know every detail. What was it like to be on TV, how did you do your entrance, who did you eat next to...their last question will be who ate the most that day? My objective is for them to say, "Humble" Bob did.
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.
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..
Just posted some videos on the main page. Check them out as these are "Humble" Bob exclusives. Had a great time at Mallie's !!! I can't wait to get back there. I had a great time. They really know how to put on an event there. If you are ever in the Southgate, Michigan area, you have to check this place out. This is right outside of Detriot. Mallie's They have tons of good food and lots of icy cold beverages. I think they have around 36 TVs in the place. Huge outside seating. Friendly employees. You will not be disappointed.
Calamari up next. Check out podtalker.com that is a good site to visit.
Back from a great weekend in DC after the funnel cake contest. We did a bunch of rides after funnel cake and I have to admit that standing up roller coaster really made me ill. But all is good now. Happy Memorial Day to all. Thank you to all veterans and their families !!!
5/6
Looks like for sure I am in gyros, hotdogs Allentown and funnel cake. I may be competing at calamari, not sure yet.
4/30
Lots of people asking, so here goes. I signed up for Dippin' Dots, Gyros, accepted at Nathan's Allentown, wait listed for Nathan's Atlantic City, Funnel Cake in VA, Calamari, accepted at Nathan's Queens.
4/6
I signed up for Allentown, Atlantic City, Queens, NY.
3/30
Only 160 days until the Competitive Eating Event of the Year - The Krystal SquareOff. Okay I just made up that number. But really, is there an event that even comes close to this one? I have almost recovered from my bitterly disappointing display of slow Krystal eating in last years finals. Unfortunately my predictions for the Finals were all too accurate. As I wrote here on this very page on 8/29 (see 8/29 below)
"This year I think the winning total will be 92 burgers. Second will be 90 burgers. Third will be 87 and fourth will be 84. You can take this to the bank."
Well the top four ended up being 93, 85, 84 and 76. I messed up the numbers with the 76. Ouch it hurts just to type that. I feel my reasons for these numbers, as I listed on the post below, came true. 103 will never be touched again. This year I hope to regain some type of Krystal form and put on a better show. Way too early for a number prediction. Lets just say I am shooting for one more then everyone else.
In the mean time there are many, many warm up contests that offer lots of fun for the eaters and excitement for the CE fan. My next event will be funnel cakes. Who doesn't love funnel cakes? Everyone has eaten them. When people hear the numbers that are going to be put up, they are going to be amazed.
After that I am not sure what other foods I am going to eat. I know I will be eating hotdogs somewhere, just not sure yet. There is no Philly or QVC qualifier this year. Hmmm, maybe I will go to Minnesota. Word on the street is that will be the easy qualifier.
3/19
Had a great time at the Stroehmann Sandwich Slamm in NYC. I have always loved the bread and I got to compete with it. The Stroehmann's employees are every bit as good as their bread. Each one that I had a chance to talk to was nicer then the previous one. I wonder how long they could have kept that up? Well it lasted the entire contest and afterwards as well. I am sorry that I missed partaking in the buffet after the contest, but for some reason I wasn't very hungry. It did look good though.
I am going to be off until 4/11 in CA. See you there!
2/24
I am happy to announce that I have officially been named the 4th best Crawfish Eater in the history of the World. I was able to eat 2.83 pounds of crawfish meat (from whole crawfishes) in 12 minutes. Shocking I know, but it is true. Big thanks to the Showboat and the House of Blues for having us. I look forward to coming back again next year and participating in a different Mardi Gras food.
2/?
I am in for crawfish in Atlantic City. Should be interesting as I have never eaten one before. Hopefully I will eat a lot. I also signed up for the Stroehmann contest. Seeing as how I lived in PA Dutch country, I should be a shoo in to win this event.
2/9
Just put my first video up on youtube. I am eating 53 hardboiled eggs. Rick The Manager shot the video. See it HERE.
Some contests have just been announced for Major League Eating. I signed up for the one in Atlantic City. I am hoping to do at least three of the ones that have been talked about. We shall see what the schedule allows me to do.
I have been having a bunch of fun as of late but I am looking forward to competing in a contest soon. It was tough to watch the contest in Philly and not be involved. I would much rather be at the table, then down front watching.
As for all of the people who have contacted me from Upper Merion, thanks for some good memories. It has been interesting catching up with you.
11/8
Slow to update this site lately. I am making some updates and I now have all of my results up from 2008. Posted some new pics on the pics page. I will be putting up Krystal SquareOff V pics (ie pics from the greatest Competitive Eating contest EVER). In the mean time, please excuse me as I have been going to the movies a lot. Saw a sneak preview of Madagascar 2 on Wendesday and the girls loved it. I am going to go out to the movies again this Friday night.
9/12
With Kolaches being postponed, I was really looking forward to competing in the Harrah's Louisiana Downs World Grits Eating Championship in Bossier City. With Hurricane Ike, it was going to be a real challenge to get there. My best option was to fly into Little Rock, Arkansas and then drive to Bossier City. There would be nothing easy about it.
It was going to take multiple flights with long layovers. A vacation day from work. A massive drive to and from the contest in a rental car and then two nights of hotel rooms. With the success I have been having lately, I thought it would all be worth it. So I was deciding between a $680 flight and a $800 flight. Throw in the rental car and gas $150. Throw in airport parking in Philly $33. I was looking at $863 - $1,013 just to get there. Still no problem in my mind as first prize is $4,000 and that was the one I was going for. $2,000 and $1,500 for second and third kept me in positive territory.
Then the show stopper. When I called last night to get a room on Friday and Saturday, the cheapest I was quoted was $169.99 each night plus tax. I didn't even ask what the tax would be. I asked is this the least expensive room - maybe she thought I said most expensive. She confirmed it was correct.
I then went through all options, How about a AAA discount? No? Any discount? AARP, military, government? Nothing. Then I got to thinking...
Do you know that I am the number 5 ranked eater in the world and I currently have the longest current winning streak of any eater in the world? She was amazed by that fact. Wow, that is so neat, I always wondered how you guys do that sort of thing. I read about you guys... I was thinking to myself, "OK, I got her now. Maybe the second night free..." Then I woke up from this fantasy and she said that it would still be $169.99/night plus tax.
I said ""You want this contest to be legitimate right? You want the hottest eater on the circuit there right? You need me there. How about $99 / night tax included?" She laughed and said "Sorry sir, that is the best I can do for you, $169.99 /night plus tax.
Well since I had to pay for a room at probably $375/ two nights total + the other costs = $1,238 - $1,388 range for this contest = too much. Bottom line, a non discounted hotel room kept me away from the Grits Eating Title. Darn those room rates.
OK, to be fair maybe there was also going to be a half dozen other top ranked eaters there that may have caused me an additional challenge or six, but lets not talk about them. Lets focus more on the greatest Grits eater in the world being forced to sit on the sidelines this year. 25 lbs was a given, my only question was if I could top 27 lbs. Well there is always next year (assuming I can get a discounted room.)
Being a glamorous competitive eater sure isn't inexpensive.
9/4
This weekend I was able to compete in two contests that I have not competed in before. On Saturday I was in the Myrtle Beach World BBQ Eating Championship. These sandwiches consisted of pulled pork BBQ on a plain hamburger bun. The buns were 1.5 ounces each. The meat I would guess was about 2.5 – 3 ounces. That would put each sandwich at 4 – 4.5 ounces. I wish I could be a little more accurate, but that is a best guess scenario.
I got out to a quick start and was doing very well. Unfortunately I hit a wall and was hanging out for about 3 minutes enjoying the sights and sounds of Myrtle Beach. Basically doing everything you could do, without eating. I then came across a different technique and was able to do 6 – 7 sandwiches in the last minute. Unfortunately I was too far behind and was not again to regain the lead I had lost.
The 46 sandwiches come to 184 – 207 ounces or 11.5 to 12.94 lbs in 10 minutes. I am happy with that total. Joey and Pat were able to pull away, showing why they are top ranked. Hall also put up a great number with 34 sandwiches.
I enjoyed my time in Myrtle Beach. The air-conditioned trailer that served as our green room was much appreciated. The organizers were very helpful and made us feel like actual celebrities.
Most of all it was great to see an old friend and his beautiful family – the Markley’s.
Next up was the Kings Island Skyline Chili Spaghetti Eating Championship. Upon entering the park, Joey’s picture was everywhere promoting the days contest. It was great to see Competitive Eating headlining a large establishment like King’s Island. I would say that we got top billing over Pete Rose who was there that same day. This is Cincinnati folks!
We were eating on the International Stage which is a very nice, covered theatre in the park. Yes this is the exact same stage that Carmen Elecktra appeared just two days earlier.
The employees were very carefully measuring out the food. Each tray got the exact same amount. 8 ounces of spaghetti noodles, 6 ounces of chili (no beans but a touch of chocolate, dense not runny) and then 2 ounces of shredded cheese on top. In all of my contests, I have never seen such exact measuring. I can say that each eater got the exact same food. Great job guys.
The park provided what seemed like 175 people to assist the eaters with whatever we needed. I was actually embarrassed with how much service they were giving me. Thank you so much for everything.
In the contest I got off to a very quick start. This time I was able to hold on to the lead. I was able to do this despite having to eat next to Tim “Gravy” Brown who almost made me laugh about 10 times during the contest. I never ate next to someone who talked that much during a contest. I don’t remember him doing it at Nathan’s.
It came down to the scales. Mine was weighed first. I saw what it was. Then Joey’s was weighed. After what seemed like forever, the scale showed that I won by 5 ounces. It was close.
After the contest Pat, Joey, Gravy and Gravy’s Groupie(s) went on several roller coasters. That was a challenge at times, but we all made it through OK.
King’s Island and Skyline Chili (which I thought was very tasty indeed) thanks for a great day. Hope to see you next year.
8/29
I had the best weekend in Chattanooga. I hope that every eater gets to experience what I did at some point in their eating career. The Krystal company once again continued to not only set the gold standard for eating contests, but to continue to raise it each and every year.
What other contest has a ceremonial lighting of a grill and then a parade/grill relay? That was fantastic. I was honored to be the person to light the grill and also the last person in the grill relay. Actually, I was honored to be a part of the whole thing. Really I was.
I get a lot of enjoyment when I get to see how things work. I was able to get on different TV sets and watch as the personalities read from the teleprompters and would switch from camera to camera. I watched a radio host masterfully run his board to go from commercial to live talking. I think it is awesome when you see someone who has total control over their job. Watching them move as if they were born to do what they are doing. Regardless what the job is, I think that it is very impressive.
The Krystal SquareOff V is going to be the best one yet. I like how it is going to be on FSN South. Of course at first I was disappointed that it would not be on ESPN. After talking to the Krystal people, I understood why they choose that path. First, it is where their customers are. The show is twice as long. They also have weekly updates after each Qualifier. So by the time the Finals comes around, everyone in the South who follows sports will know about the contest. Great exposure for both Krystals and Competitive Eating.
There are other changes coming this year. At least one of them is a CE first. This one puts us right there with the other major sports leagues. I think it will show exactly where Krystals and the IFOCE is as far as popularity. In order to pull this one off successfully, you need to have a big demand from your fan base. I can’t wait for everyone to see it. I can’t tell you what it is, but you will see at the Finals.
As far as my qualifier went, it was great to see many of these eaters. I was placed between Larry “The Legend” and Super Paul Bone Breaker Big Mouth Barlow and there is not better place to be. I could feel their support as I thought I was going to die. Paul actually encouraging me with words “You can’t die in front of the cameras, you will ruin Competitive Eating”. Nah, he really was cheering me on. Thanks guys.
I had a very rough day. Fortunately for me there are many people who think I was just taking it easy and not wanting to show what I could do. Trying to hide my actual number from the other eaters so they would be surprised at the Finals. Yeah that is it. I can really eat 200 of these things.
The truth is, I have never felt worse for a contest. Normally, for a Saturday contest, I will eat a very light dinner on Thursday night. That would be mostly of four Boca burgers (70 calories each) and maybe a piece of fruit. Then I will have two protein shakes on Friday and then eat in the contest on Saturday. This puts me around 43 – 46 hours without any food. This helps me to clean out my system and to go into the contest hungry.
So in trying to put up a big number, I decided to do one better. On Wednesday at 5 pm I had my burgers and no fruit. Thursday two shakes, Friday two shakes with the last one at 5 pm. This put me at 70.5 hours without food and 22.5 hours without anything. Saturday I woke up feeling what I thought was very tired. Wanting to have a big day, I just laid in bed until about 1:30 when I got up to get dressed. I also made sure not to drink anything so I would have even more room for the burgers.
As I was walking to the contest carrying my two gallons of beverages, I was very light headed. The two gallons seemed like twenty gallons. The ¾ of a mile seemed like 34 miles. When Brad spotted me and offered me a ride, I took it in a heartbeat.
After arriving at the contest, the heat started to get to me and I started to feel even worse. I had to go to my patented ice towels early. I had trouble even standing to listen to Kenny go over the rules. The world was starting to act differently. I then knew that this was not going to go well.
I started to drink backstage to try to get some fluids moving in me. It was too late.
When I got on stage, my entire focus was on just making sure I stayed upright. That was a chore right there. Then 3, 2, 1, SquareOff! I pick up my first two burgers. The right-hand worked fine. The left-hand would not fit into the cup. I looked over and saw that the burger was still in the box. This is going to be the longest 8 minutes ever.
Watching a video of the contest, I see how much time I spent with both hands on the table holding myself up. That is not what I should be doing. I should be throwing these things down.
My preparation is what messed me up. It is all my fault and I take 100% of the blame. I have learned my lesson.
In the end I was very happy that I won, but disappointed in my total. The best analogy that I can give is that of a decathlete that is good at all of the events, but is really good in one particular one. Krystals is my really good event. For me not to demonstrate my abilities in a Krystal contest, it is disappointing. I do however have a second chance on September 28, 2008. I intend to take full advantage of that opportunity.
That leads me to making a major correction. When I was put on the spot in many interviews, I said that I thought it would take 120 Krystals to win this year. That is a number that Pat and I have spoken about on several occasions. I truly thought that was accurate. However, I am going to dramatically lower that number.
After doing much research and seeing new footage of the last two Krystal Finals, that number is way too high. I was lucky to bump into two different people after my qualifier. One person worked for a local TV station and the other was a big fan. The TV station person provided me with footage of the last two Finals. It is great stuff. The first one shows Joey and Kobe for the entire contest. The camera is trained on both of them. For the exception of a couple of times that a judge momentarily moved in front of them, you can see every burger that they ate. You can even see the burger that Joey did not dunk in the last minute that threw him out of his rhythm and secured the victory for Kobe. Their footage from last year was a little wider shot, but just as clear. The quality is great. The fan was able to provide me with his footage of last years Finals where he too kept a camera almost the entire time zoomed in to the middle of the table. A couple of times he went wide, but only for a few seconds.
Using this footage and a lot of time, I now have a very accurate count of the five times that people have eaten 90 + Krystal burgers in 8 minutes. I know where each person was at the one minute mark, two minute mark…how long to get to 20 burgers, 40 burgers…where they slowed down and what at rate they slowed down. I charted this info and it provided some interesting information. Most of which I do not care to share as I think it is too valuable. I do not need my competitors knowing this stuff.
I will share some info though. With the exception of Joey having an issue not dunking the burger, there were no other issues in the five 90+ runs. Zero. There was not one time where there was an issue taking a burger out of the box. Not one. These runs were perfect. They could not have gone better.
When you are eating in such a short contest, there is no time for you to correct any mistakes. Mess up and your total is lower. In longer contest, you are actually eating so slow at the end, it doesn’t really matter what happened at the beginning. There is plenty of time to make up for it.
These two Krystal Finals took place later in the year then this years Finals. At least a full month later. This years contest will be much warmer and more humid. This will cause the buns to come out of the boxes much slower. There will be issues with some of the burgers not coming out. The eaters will have to spend time dealing with this. This will eat up valuable contest time.
Last year was the quickest start. Two eaters were under three seconds a burger in the early going and another was just a tiny bit behind them. Again that was with no box issues. Any issues in these critical initial two minutes will absolutely guarantee that you will not be able to put up a big number. I am going on the record right now, that there will be issues. Every eater will have box issues this year.
In addition I took my practice splits from last year and compared them to my time in my one practice run before my qualifier and the one I did last week. I am far behind my times from last year. It is not even close. I realized that last year might have been my magical Krystal season. That time when all of my training and skills came together and I was able to achieve more then what I should have.
That is not to say that I am not going to work to do well in this years Finals. I am going to give it my all. However, when I look at the footage and my records, it finally dawned on me. Last years Final may never be repeated. Do to the later, cooler, quicker environment that the contest was held and the fact that Joey, Pat and I peaked at the same time, we were able to do something that I do not think will be repeated.
No eater will break the 100 burger barrier. Joey Chestnut’s 103 burgers will be talked about in the same sentence as Bob Beamon’s long jump record. Beamon was able to use the thin air in Mexico City and the maximum allowable tail wind to take his personal best long jump of 27 ft 4 in., to do something that he never should have been able to do. He jumped 29 ft 2 ½ in. He became the first jumper ever to go over 28 feet and 29 feet and he did it in the same jump. After that jump, he never again jumped over 27 feet. The term Beamonesque was coined to describe spectacular feats. Last year Joey was Beamonesque.
This year I think the winning total will be 92 burgers. Second will be 90 burgers. Third will be 87 and fourth will be 84. You can take this to the bank.
No one will be anywhere near 100. The perfect storm of Krystal IV will not be repeated.
So I formally apologize for the 120 prediction, it is not going to happen. Even the total from third place last year is not going to happen. In a sport where records are cherished and have come to be expected at each contest, that streak is over. Hate to disappoint any fans out there, but these are the facts.
That said, most eaters do not care about records, they care about that belt. I want that belt. I will do everything I can to get that belt. If/when I get it, I am not giving it back. I will run off of the back of the stage and continue running just a fast as I can with a belly full of burgers. No one will catch me. They will call me the Gingerbread Man.
Krystals, don’t say I didn’t warn you about keeping that belt. I may be clutching that belt from a jail cell, but I am not giving it back.
8/19
I had another great time this past weekend at the Ash Creek Rib Eating Championship. Not only is the food amoung the best in the circuit, but the people are as well. Next year I am going to try to stay the night and make the most of it. It was great being in a contest with so many pro eaters. That field was absolutely stacked of people on the circuit. There was probably about 13 or 14 people that do these contests at least somewhat regularly. This does not happen at many contests as the travel expenses usually make it cost prohibitive for this many eaters. I think the combination of a northeast location and a great contest makes it so popular. This is my third year and I was finally able to win after two, third place finishes. I was also pleased to find out that both Joey and I broke the existing Ash Creek record that he set in 2006.
I am off to Krystal Land on Thursday night. Maybe I can get a taste of Krystals then. I have my eight minute Qualifier on Saturday. It looks like there will be a couple of regulars there and some new people. I am looking forward to seeing them all and having a good contest. Actually I am looking forward to seeing everyone but Super Paul Bone Breaker Barlow. I get along with most eaters, but this guy just plain has it out for me. How else can you explain him keeping me off of his best dressed eater list year after year?
8/9
The Olympics started last night. I had a moment of sadness when I realized what a waste it was that Competitive Eating was not included. However that did not last long as I realized that Competitive Eating does not need the Olympics, if anything the Olympics needs us. This years Krystal SquareOff is going to be BIGGER then the Olympics. I can't wait. All along I was hoping to go to a late qualifier and use that as a tune up for the Finals. When I read that this years contest was going to be bigger and better then last years, well I do not know if I can take the chance of waiting that long and possibly missing the most important Competitive Eating contest of the season. I think I am going to try to qualify as early as possible. This way if I do not win my qualifier, I have others that I can give it another shot. With only 7 qualifiers this year it is going to be very hard to get into this prestigious event.
I think this is something that many people forget when they discuss this contest. Sure, some no-name kid with a bad haircut did 103 burgers last year and won the contest. That is what people will tell you. Well I want you to know that I think that each and every eater that makes it to that stage is a winner. They accomplished something that few people can do. They made it to the Final Table at the Krystal SquareOff. There is no table I would rather be. Everyone at that table this year will be able to tell their grandkids the story over and over. "Grandpa/Grandma please tell us the story of when you ate in the Finals of the greatest eating contest in the history of Competitive Eating."
My goal for this year is that when they tell the story of that special day, somewhere in the story they mention that all of the eaters at that table were amoung the greatest eaters of their time. How they cherished that day. How it is a day that they will never forget. How when their joints are aching and they are struggling to make it thorough a tough situation that they think back upon that day and a smile always comes to their face. The Grandkids will be riveted to the story, wanting to know every detail. What was it like to be on TV, how did you do your entrance, who did you eat next to...their last question will be who ate the most that day? My objective is for them to say, "Humble" Bob did.
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.
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..