FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Release #035-00
Tuesday, February 1, 2000
Contact: Sunny Mindel/Edward Skyler 212/788-2958
Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani today crowned the Matzoh Ball Eating Champion after a heated competition at Ben's Kosher Deli. Proceeds from the contest will be used to combat hunger in the New York City area through the Interfaith Nutrition Network.
"I am happy to see that the proceeds from this unique event are going to prevent hunger," Mayor Giuliani said. "I would like to thank Ben's Kosher Deli for their philanthropic efforts and congratulate the winner for stomaching the competition."
Ninety-three contestants entered the contest at the different qualifying rounds throughout New York City and Long Island. By last week, the field of competitors had been reduced to the eight finalists who participated in today's championship round.
The format calls for contestants to eat as many matzoh balls as possible in five minutes and twenty-five seconds. In the event of a tie, a one minute and twenty-five second eat-off will determine the winner. Partially eaten matzoh balls do not count towards the final tally.
Among the judges was attorney Raoul Felder while WABC-AM Radio personality Curtis Sliwa was the Master of Ceremonies. The contest began in 1998 during the 25th anniversary of Ben's Kosher Delicatessen Restaurants.