Location: Springfield, IL
Some the nation’s top competitive eaters gathered at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield, IL, on August 13, 2005, for the third official stop on the GoldenPalace.net World Grilled Cheese-Eating Championship circuit.
Bob Shoudt triumphed in the qualifier, showing off his roots as a social but not competitive vegetarian. He devoured 18 grilled cheese sandwiches in 10 minutes. Placing second was Patrick Bertoletti, and finishing third was Frank Wach.
“Winning a dairy-based contest truly shows Shoudt’s versatility as a competitive eater,” said George Shea of the IFOCE.
Shoudt not only pockets $1,000 for his victory, but earns a spot in the GoldenPalace.net World Grilled Cheese Eating Championship, where $20,000 will be on the line.