Andrusco takes on top eaters

JAM's top competitive eater takes third at IFCE contest

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (August 22, 2004) -- JAM eating champion Rob "Rubar" Andrusco put his voracious appetite to the test today against a field of 12 challengers, including three decorated veterans of the competitive eating wars, in a qualifying tournament for the 2005 Nathan's Coney Island Hot Dog Eating Contest.

Facing the top level of competition for the first time, Andrusco scarfed down an impressive 13 hot dogs and buns in only 12 minutes. His efforts earned him third place in the International Federation of Competitive Eating-sponsored event, making him the highest ranked rookie participant.

The winner of the contest, with 20 3/4 dogs, was Don "Moses" Lerman, who claims to have the "fastest hands in competitive eating." For those unfamiliar with Lerman, this slogan is emblazoned on the personalized hat, T-shirt and jacket that he wore during the competition in an apparent attempt to psyche out his opponents.

Tim "The Green Hornet" Janus, a legend on the Capital Region's competitive eating circuit for his eating prowess as well as his outfit and makeup, narrowly edged out Andrusco by eating 16 1/2 dogs.

Finishing behind Andrusco was "Big" Brian Subich, a multiple-time participant in hot dog eating contests and a past champion in the disciplines of pizza and hot fudge sundaes. Subich's defeat at the hands of a novice has prompted loud whispers in the competitive eating circuit about his continued viability at the top level of competitive eating.

"Subich is my bitch," an exuberant, though clearly full, Andrusco gloated after the contest. "I'll face him anytime, anywhere -- though not right now."

Those who have witnessed Rubar's impressive eating abilities first-hand did not find the outcome surprising.

"I'm not at all shocked by what Rob did," said Chris Crowley, a spectator at the event and a long-time Andrusco compatriot. "Rob said he was hungry on the way into the track. If he didn't enter this contest, he would have eaten the same number of dogs in the same amount of time on his own, no question. The other guys up there should thank God that he didn't get to eat steak."

Andrusco's performance in the hot dog eating contest is only the latest in a long line of personal eating accomplishments. His most impressive moment prior to today came in November 2002, when he defeated Geoff Bowler in the JAM-sponsored Meat-Off.

Sunday's host referenced this moment, which Rob included in the Eating Experience section of his contest application, when he noted that Andrusco had previously won "a private competition in which he ate 16 quarter-pound hamburgers in 40 minutes."

Andrusco also consumed a six-inch cold cut combo from Subway in a record 1:47 in 1992.

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