Location: San Jose, CA
Third time's a charm for "Pretty Boy" Pete Davekos who earned this year's final qualifying spot to Coney Island in his third attempt of 2009 with a victory at San Jose State University.
Everyone knew this last qualifier would be stacked with contenders who had seen their Fourth of July fate snatched before them earlier on the circuit. Davekos, who twice finished in second place at previous qualifiers (Boston and Denver) by a total of 4 HDBs, was able to stave off the competition and down 25 HDBs for the elusive victory.
"Nasty" Nate Biller came in second place with 20.5 HDBs and Brian Subich in a close third with 20 HDBs. Biller, Subich and the rest of the Nathan's Famous hopefuls will have to wait until next year for another shot at eternal glory on the Coney Island Fourth of July stage.
*All applicants must be 18 years of age or older and fully acknowledge and understand the inherent dangers and risks associated with participating in an eating contest. The applicant further acknowledges and understands that the MLE/IFOCE coordinates with event sponsor(s) to select and approve eligible participants, and that the MLE/IFOCE shall decide, at its sole discretion, whether an applicant is eligible to participate in any eating event, and/or related activities. The MLE/IFOCE may revoke an applicant's eligibility to participate in the eating contest, or related activities, at any time, for any reason, at its sole discretion. The MLE/IFOCE and the event sponsors reserve the right, at any time, to change any and all details concerning the event, including, e.g., time, duration, location and prize structure.