2002 Hibernation Cup/Stagg Chili Contest

Charles Hardy quieted whispers that he had entered the waning years of his career with a dramatic performance in the Hibernation Cup in Alaska in August. The specifics of this four-event, four-day tournament remain under wraps as Discovery Channel prepares a one-hour documentary, Gutbusters II, for a spring airdate. However, the event attracted top eaters from Alaska and from the lower 48 for an emotional journey over the rugged Alaskan landscape in pursuit of the coveted Hibernation Cup.

Meanwhile, Rich LeFevre continued his impressive 2002 season with a definitive win in the Stagg World's Chili Eating Contest in Reno, NV. LeFevre ate a full 1 ½ gallons of chili in 10 minutes, overwhelming all competitors except his wife, Carlene, who topped the 1 gallon mark to come in second.

Rich LeFevre has been known as a distance man, but in recent months he has performed remarkably well in several speed contests. Can he expand on this success in 2003?