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The 2024 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest proved to be a historic event, showcasing the prowess of competitive eaters Miki Sudo and Patrick Bertoletti. Held annually on July 4th at Coney Island, this year’s competition was notably absent of Joey Chestnut, a 16-time champion, due to contractual obligations with a rival hot dog brand. Despite his absence, the day belonged to Sudo and Bertoletti, who claimed the coveted pink belt and mustard belt, respectively, in a display of gastronomic achievement.

Miki Sudo, renowned for her dominance in the competitive eating circuit, set a new women’s world record by devouring an astonishing 51 hot dogs within the 10-minute contest period. This victory marked her 10th pink belt, solidifying her status as one of the greatest competitive eaters of all time. Her performance was not without competition, as Mayoi “Ebimayo” Ebihara pushed Sudo with a commendable total of 37 hot dogs, showcasing the intensity of the women’s competition.

In the men’s division, Patrick Bertoletti emerged victorious with an impressive consumption of 58 hot dogs, a personal best that secured him the mustard belt. Bertoletti’s return to competitive eating after a decade-long hiatus underscored his determination and skill, elevating him to the top of the leaderboard in Chestnut’s absence. The competition was fierce throughout the event, with top contenders like Geoffrey Esper and Nick Wehry vying closely for the title.

Joey Chestnut’s absence, stemming from his contractual commitments to a competing brand, reshaped the dynamics of the contest. Known for his record-breaking feats, including consuming 76 hot dogs in a single event in 2021, Chestnut’s decision to sit out this year’s Nathan’s contest created opportunities for other competitors to shine. Bertoletti, ranked ninth coming into the contest, capitalized on this opportunity, demonstrating his dedication and competitive spirit in claiming the championship title.

For Miki Sudo, the victory represented not only a personal triumph but also a continuation of her legacy within the sport. Since establishing herself as a top-ranked eater in 2014, Sudo has consistently showcased her ability to set and break records, culminating in her impressive performance this year. Her journey includes overcoming challenges, such as skipping the 2021 contest due to pregnancy, yet returning stronger each time to reaffirm her dominance.

Looking ahead, the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest remains a cornerstone of American culinary sport, blending athleticism and spectacle on a grand scale. As competitive eating continues to captivate audiences worldwide, the achievements of athletes like Miki Sudo and Patrick Bertoletti serve as a testament to the dedication and skill required to excel in this unique field. Their victories in 2024 not only celebrate their individual accomplishments but also highlight the ongoing evolution of competitive eating as a recognized and respected sport.