Joey Chestnut downs record 70 hot dogs in eating contest

A group of animal rights activists stormed Coney Island’s annual Independence Day hot dog eating contest sponsored by Nathan’s Famous, Inc., and even snatched a frankfurter out of the hands of contestant Crazy Legs Conti before he could get it into his mouth.

Competitive eater Joey Chestnut once again rules the kennel after winning the annual Nathan’s Famous hot-dog eating contest in Coney Island, New York, The Wall Street Journal and The Associated Press reported.

The victor of that first contest in 1972 was able to shove 14 hot dogs and buns down in 12 minutes.

Chestnut said Stonie “woke up the sleeping giant” when he beat him out past year.

Chestnut wolfed a record 70 dogs and buns in 10 minutes and avenged his defeat previous year at the hands of Matt Stonie, who finished second, consuming a scant 53.

Of particular note in the men’s competition is a second face-off between Joey “Jaws” Chestnut and defending champ Matt “The Megatoad” Stonie.

And remember, these dog-downing contestants have to hold down the more than seven pounds of hot dog sandwiches they consume.

Nathan’s Famous is celebrating 100 years in Coney Island this year. “This year was the best ever”.

“Last year was rough”, Chestnut told the audience. Besides the glory, Chestnut also takes home $10,000 and the championship belt, which is appropriately mustard yellow in color.

Lesco ate 27 hot dogs in 10 minutes, almost a dozen less than defending champion Miki Sudo of Las Vegas.

Chestnut, 32, went into the 10-minute speed-eating extravaganza looking for redemption.

The colorful holiday tradition draws its share of characters.