The Jack’s Donuts World Donut Hole Eating Championship returns to downtown New Castle on Friday, May 26. The Championship is sanctioned by Major League Eating (MLE) and will feature world-renowned competitive eater Joey Chestnut and returning champ Geoffery Esper along with several other top-ranked competitors.
“Chestnut publicly declared that he would top Esper’s record of nearly 300 delicious Jack’s Donut Holes,” said MLE emcee Sam Barclay. “This is a record that Esper holds dear and the tension between the two eaters is palpable.”
The contest marks the first “Fourth Friday” event for the summer presented by New Castle Main Street which will run from 6 to 10 p.m. While the activities will be centered at the 1400 Plaza (corner of 14th and Broad Streets), New Castle Main Street encourages all who attend to visit downtown businesses during the event.
“We’re excited to welcome everyone but especially our Henry Community Health VIPs to this highly anticipated event, and we hope everyone will take the time to stop by some of our wonderful local businesses including Blue River Taphouse, Primo, Back Porch Bar & Grill, Twin Lions, The Press, Barnett & Co., Luxe Lizzies, Village Creations, 1822 Vintage Boutique, MTB Home Furnishings, Monkey Jack’s Records, and Selah Boutique,” mentioned Carrie Barrett, New Castle Main Street Executive Director.
Several food trucks are planning to be available including Regular Burger, Ky’s Kreations, Big Poppa’s Pork Pit, Aric Eats, and the Boujie Baker.
During the donut hole eating competition, contestants will have a time limit of eight minutes to consume as many donut holes as possible. In last year’s inaugural contest Esper consumed 293 donut holes, followed by Patrick Bertoletti with 275 and Miki Sudo with 221. Chestnut was unable to attend last year’s event due to illness. This year’s winner will receive $4,000 and the championship belt.
In addition to Chestnut and Esper, the following Major League Eating athletes are signed up for the donut hole eating championship: #1-ranked female competitive eater Miki Sudo, #4-ranked Nick Wehry, #10-ranked James Webb, #11-ranked Patrick Bertoletti, #23-ranked Derek Jacobs, #39-ranked John Gebhard and more.
Following the contest, Staci McCrackin will share live music. McCrackin is an entertaining musician who performs with The Flying Toasters and other popular Indy-based bands. Young Life will be hosting a cornhole tournament on 14th Street as well.
This event is presented by New Castle Main Street and Jack’s Donuts with support from Citizens State Bank, Myers Furniture, and Clean N Simple Cleaning Services. Learn more about New Castle Main Street by visiting newcastledowntown.com.
