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21 to Compete in Hot Dog-Eating Contest

Posted on: Friday, 4 July 2003, 06:00 CDT

In just a matter of hours, a new world champion hot dog-eater will emerge from a field of 21 competitors on New York's famed Coney Island.

It's the 88th annual Nathan's Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest. The winner takes home the "Coveted International Mustard Yellow Belt" and a year's supply of hot dogs.

Takeru Kobayashi of Japan will be defending his title. Last year he consumed a record 50 1/2 hot dogs and buns in 12 minutes to win.

But Kobayashi may not have an easy time of it. There are 20 other global contestants hungry for the title including American Eric Booker, who has tossed down 30 dogs and buns in competition.

Former football star William "The Refrigerator" Perry is among the contestants.

The eaters will be introduced at 11 a.m. EDT and the dinner bell rings at 12:02 p.m. EDT.

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