PHOTOS: Hersheypark Hosted Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest Qualifier

Date: June 19, 2026

Today at Hersheypark amusement park, Major League Eating sanctioned the final qualifying event of the 2026 season for the Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest. 

Competitive eaters faced off inside The Boardwalk at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania, for the chance to earn a coveted spot at the upcoming championship at Coney Island, Brooklyn. The competitors had 10 intense minutes to consume as many Nathan’s Famous hot dogs as possible, pushing the limits of speed, focus and endurance in front of a large crowd of parkgoers. 

George Chiger, the no. 13-ranked competitive eater in the world from Pocono Pines, Pennsylvania, headlined a stacked field of eaters competing. He narrowly took home the trophy for the second year in a row at Hersheypark by eating 25.5 hot dogs. Yuno Choi finished in second with 25 hot dogs consumed. 

Hailing from Long Pond, Pennsylvania, Larell Matie Mele placed first for the women, eating 12.25 hot dogs at the Hersheypark qualifier. She is currently the no. 27-ranked eater in the world.

The top male and female finishers will represent Pennsylvania at the annual Coney Island event, which attracts millions of viewers annually on ESPN.

Official Hersheypark Qualifier Results

Men’s

1. George Chiger - 25.5 

2. Yuno Choi - 25

3. Taner Gray - 22

4. Jacob Williams - 17

5. Mitchell Ashe - 13.5

6. William “Wild Bill” Myers - 12

7. Paul Chen - 10.25

Ladies

1. Larell Marie Mele - 12.25

2. Cherish Brown - 7.5

3. Prudence DiBenedetto - 5 

4. Elizabeth “Glizzy Lizzy” Salgado - 5

5. Rori Hausman - 3.75

Hersheypark is in the midst of hosting an extended Hot Dog Week celebration for two weeks through June 28, 2026! The largest amusement park in Pennsylvania will offer a selection of hot dogs piled high with toppings and loaded with unique flavors. 

Thanks to all of the eaters and guests for joining us. Now, it's time to enjoy a hot dog!