It happened again this year. If things continue as they are, perhaps it won’t happen next year. Plenty of fans would be upset. Would you be one of them? No, we’re not talking about the Super Bowl, we’re talking about Philadelphia’s annual Wing Bowl. Was it ever a nice free event with humble beginnings, like an innocent country fair competition to entertain the whole family? Today’s Wing Bowl is a far cry from your grandma’s pie eating contest.
As a matter of fact, this Wing Bowl thing’s been gnawing at me for over a year. CBS health news blogwriter, Neil Katz reported that the 2011 winner, Jon “Super” Squib, ate a wing bowl record 255 chicken wings for an estimated 40,000 calories. What makes 26 men compete to consume that much food? Competition is a big thing going back to Romans gladiators and all, but chicken wings? To bump up the excitement, the event includes the Wingettes—scantily dressed… er…clad women who cheer on the festivities and, I’m not sure of their full roles… . Hmmm, those stadium stands look pretty full. Sure, some people took off, but how many called out sick from work?
For me, the really gnawing part is multiplying 26 men, eating an average of 100 wings. We’re talking over 2,000 wings, that’s a lot of food. There have to be homeless people in Philly who could benefit from a hot meal. I don’t know, maybe it’s just crazy to get between a serious competitor and a chicken wing.
The 19th annual Wing Bowl has come and gone. What do you think? Has the Wing Bowl become too over-the-top or is it still harmless fun, hurting no one?
2 comments:
Well, eating contests eating contest have grown in popularity ovr the least 10 years. I think the element of competition is overall a good thing so from that perspective I think eating contest are also a good thing especially when you consider that you don't have to run the 40 yard dash in 4.3 seconds or hit a 100 mph fastbal to be successful. With regards to wasteful activity, there are tons of other areas that could be addressed for ensuring that provisions are made for the homeless and others lacking food (e.g. food wasted at restaurants, nursing homes, etc.).
I see your point and I don't disagree but more can be done to help moinimize the hunger issue, no?
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