World Maine Lobster Eating Championship

Kennebunkport, Maine, will host the second annual World Lobster-Eating Festival on Saturday, August 13, 2005, from noon to 5 p.m. The event-filled festival will feature a full day of Maine lobster competitions, live entertainment and affordable Maine Lobster concessions for families and individuals of all ages.

A highlight of the festival will be the Fresh Main Lobster Co.’s World Lobster-Eating Championship, sanctioned by the International Federation of Competitive Eating (IFOCE). A field of both professional and local eaters will compete, assisted by expert lobster “crackers” who will support the eaters as caddies support golfers.

World champion lobster-eater Sonya Thomas is expected to defend her championship title and possession of “The Claw,” the coveted championship belt of lobster-eating supremacy, against the world’s best competitive eaters. Last year, Thomas consumed 38 Maine lobsters in 12 minutes.

Also expected to attend are cannoli and cheesecake eating champion Badlands Booker, French fry and ice cream champion Ed ‘Cookie’ Jarvis and lumberjack breakfast champion Crazy Legs Conti. There are still spots available, and those over 18 who wish to enter can call (212) 627-5766 or register online on the contest page.

The World Lobster-Eating Festival will also feature the Maine State Amateur Championship which is open to anyone over the age of 18, registration available on site.

“There is no question that the world’s best lobster comes from Maine,” said festival founder and Kennebunkport Lobster Company owner John Hathaway. “The World Lobster Eating Festival will celebrate Maine and its heritage as the home of the lobster. ”

Available for purchase at the festival will be fresh, homemade Maine specialties offered for bargain prices: $10 Maine lobster dinners, lobster rolls, grilled lobster tails, award winning Maine lobster stew and clam chowder, wild blueberry pie, strawberry shortcake on cream cheese biscuits and whoopie pies. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages also will be sold.

Live music will be provided by recording artist Don Campbell and his band, one of New England’s leading bands.

World Lobster-Eating Festival: Date: Saturday, August 13, 2005 Time: Noon to 5 p.m.

Location: 4 Western Ave. Performance Marina at the bridge in Kennebunkport, Maine Next to the world famous Clam Shack and Federal Jack’s Admission: $5 (Free for those under 10)

On-site parking is available. Festival information is available at www.worldlobsterfest.com.