Why is a hotdog eating contest considered a sport?

2015-07-04T23:00:53-04:00

I don't get it. The annual hotdog eating contest held on July 4 at Coney Island is treated like a sport in coverage on sports news programs. First of all, the guy who wins never looks like he just polished off 60 or more hotdogs. Secondly, do you mean to tell me that stuffing my face with tube steaks is now a sport? If so, why don't we reward all those 'athletes' gorging themselves at big buffet places! What do you say?

Response by SPC Nate Lamphier made Jul 4 at 2015 11:04 PM

2015-07-04T23:04:20-04:00

In my opinion....it isnt.

But I guess you can consider me biased Sir as I coach three sports....two at the varsity level and one at the middle school level.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 4 at 2015 11:20 PM

2015-07-04T23:20:14-04:00

It's not, Sir. It is considered a contest. Sports fall under the "contest" umbrella, as do other non-sport activities such as Chess, Spelling Bees, Bowling, Billiards and Magic the Gathering fantasy card games. It is in this vein that you will find events like Food Eating contests covered on Sport programs.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 5 at 2015 12:50 AM

2015-07-05T00:50:36-04:00

The guy pictured (Matt Stonie) is pretty impressive considering he is around 135lbs. Go youtube some of his videos. He absolutely destroyed the Rock's food for an entire day (9 meals!) in like 20 minutes.