Sonya, Janus, Lerman in Salty Potato Balls

Sonya Thomas ate six pounds of Maui's special salty potato balls in eight minutes, 40 seconds to win $2,500. In the same time, Tim Janus consumed just under five pounds to place second for $1,500 and Don Lerman edged out Oleg Zhornitskiy for third place and $1,000 by eating just.05 ounces more of potatoes. Zhornitskiy, who seems repeatedly to have endured very close calls, received $400.

The event, held on the beach in North Wildwood, NJ, attracted nearly 1,000 fans and was overseen by North wildwood Mayor Palambo. Maui's Dog House, which features bratwurst with 18 different toppings, is known for the salty potato ball, which is boiled in brine and then sauteed in butter.

Also on hand was Eric Badlands Booker, Humble Bob Shoudt, Crazy Legs Conti and a number of top eaters.