Jul 4, 2008 10:28 am US/Pacific
Chestnut Is Top Dog Again In Nathan's Eat-Off
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
Fans came from near and far to watch the 2008 Nathan's hot dog eating contest at Coney Island, and the spectacle did not disappoint, CBS station WCBS-TV in New York City reports .
All eyes were on last year's winner, Joey Chestnut, and dethroned Takeru Kobayashi. Chestnut unseeded the six-time champ at last year's contest, 66 hot dogs to 63. And this time, he successfully defended his title.
Chestnut secured an early lead, and maintained it for most of the match. However Kobayashi gave a valient effort, taking the lead for the first time this competition, and holding it until the final seconds.
That was when Chestnut came roaring back, and forced a five dog tie-breaker round as both had 59 franks finished in 10 minutes.
Kobayashi was visibly disappointed, but tried to regain the stoic countenance he had at the start.
However, Chestnut's jaws were too much for the six-time former champ, and with flag and hand upraised, signifying that end of the final frank, his countenance became crestfallen.
So, for the second time in a row, Joey Chestnut is the Nathan's hot dog eating champion, retaining the title for the good ol' U.S.A.
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