Americans have marked their nation's 245th birthday with fireworks that may look brighter, hot dogs that may taste juicier and marching bands that may sound jauntier, after the coronavirus pandemic forced the cancellation of nearly all celebrations last year.
Scaled back by COVID-19, Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest at Brooklyn's Coney Island has thrilled socially distanced crowds, with reigning champion Joey Chestnut shattering his own world record by downing 76 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes.
Affectionately nicknamed ‘Jaws’, 37-year-old Chestnut bettered his own record of 75 hot dogs - set in 2020.
"It just felt good," Chestnut has told ESPN after his victory.
"Even if I was uncomfortable, having everybody cheer me and push me, it made me feel good."
By comparison, second-placed Geoffrey Epser could only consume 50 hot dogs in the 10-minute time limit, while third-placed Nick Wehry scoffed 44.
Chestnut has won Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest a record 14 titles, winning every year from 2007-21 with the exception of 2015, when he was beaten by Matt Stonie.
Reuters
