Theres only one rule when it comes to winning a hot-dog eating contest: Its not the size of your stomach that counts; its how you use it. If size really mattered, a pipsqueak like Takeru Kobayashi wouldnt be the five-year returning champion of Nathans Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest. More likely, that honor would go to Hollywood s Jammin Joe LaRue, the top-ranked hot dog-eater in the State of Florida a guy twice the size of Kobayashi. But its a new year for the contest, and the Southern Regional Hot Dog-Eating Championship is held this Saturday at the BankAtlantic Center (1 Panther Pkwy., Sunrise). Kobayashi wont be there, but LaRue will, along with 14 other equally hungry competitors. Whoever wins this round gets to compete in the July 4 contest in Coney Island, New York. Currently, Kobayashi holds not only the title but also the world record, having swallowed 53 and a half hot dogs and buns in 12 minutes. (Well give you a moment to let that sink in.) For that, Kobayashi wears the coveted Mustard Yellow International Belt. But for how long? Find out whos next in line to challenge the champ. The face-stuffing starts at 6 p.m. Admission is free. Call 954-835-800 0, or visit www.nathansfamous.com.
Sat., April 15