(victory never tasted so sweet)

“Gas is 5 dollars.   You can’t eat tomatoes.  But the Mustard Belt will stay in America and that’s good enough for me”

- Nathan Hot Dog Eating Contest announcer

There are no words to describe what I just watched at the Nathan Hot Dog Eating Contest.   It was dramatic.  It was epic.  It what sports and this country is all about.  For the first time in the history of the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating contest we had a dog off.    Yup after 10 minutes of sweat, blood and tears Joey Chestnut and Kobayashi found themselves tied at 59 dogs.   A finish that the Japanese will be questioning for years to come as it appeared that Kobayashi had the title wrapped up.   But a late flurry by Chestnut apparently tied the contest at 59 dogs and forced a 5 dog eat off.  And in the overtime period it was all America all the time as Chestnut jumped on Kobayashi like a spider monkey to retain his title.   Sure critics will say it was like USA vs. Russia in the Munich Olympics all over again.   But I say if you’re going to beat the champ on his home soil you got to do it by knockout and not by decision.    So the Mustard Belt rightfully remains in America and Joey Chestnut has solidified himself as a true American Hero. Hopefully Lance Armstrong is taking notes.