Nathan’s Famous to hold hot dog qualifying contest in Dayton Friday

People in Dayton will get the chance to qualify for the famed Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest.

>>RELATED: 2021 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest: Joey Chestnut eats 76 hot dogs, sets world record

Nathan’s Famous is hosting the third qualifying event which will take place Friday after the Dayton Dragons’ game at Day Air Ballpark, according to a Nathan’s Famous spokesperson.

It will be held in collaboration with the Cincinnati/Dayton division of Kroger.

The top male and female finishers in the event will qualify for the contest on Independence Day, July 4, where they will compete against some of the highest-ranked competitive eaters from around the world.

“Independence Day is uniquely American, but Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest is a global sporting phenomenon,” said Phil McCann, Vice President of Marketing of Nathan’s Famous. “Some of the most accomplished eaters in the world will compete at this event, but we also are seeking new talent in Dayton to represent our nation on the most patriotic day of the year.”

Joey Chestnut of Westfield, Indiana, earned his 15th title as hot dog-eating world champion in 2022, and he currently holds the world record of 76 hot dogs and buns eaten in 10 minutes.

Prior to the event, Nathan’s Famous, Smithfield, and Kroger will donate $5,000 to The Food Bank to continue to support the community, a spokesperson said.

All competitors must be at least 18 years old.

For more information, visit this website.