PLATTSBURG — The Clinton County Agricultural and Industrial Fair’s annual Michigan Eating Contest always draws a hungry crowd and a line-up of dedicated contestants.
And this year was no exception.
The longstanding tradition centers around the Michigan, a hot dog on a split top bun, with a coat of seasoned meat sauce over onions.
Sponsored by McSweeney’s, the event challenges participants to eat as many Michigans as possible in 10 minutes.
Beyond the messy fun, the goal of the contest is to raise funds for the North Country Honor Flight, which provides local veterans with trips to visit war memorials in Washington, D.C.
“This started years ago. I can’t even tell you how many years, but quite some time,” Joe Giroux, fair director, said. “It’s all about supporting the Honor Flight. They do good work for our veterans, which is important.”
This year’s top eaters received a prize of $100 for first place, $50 for second and $25 for third.
After Ethan Norcross took first place by eating 14 Michigans this year, he admitted it was shy of his personal best.
“I’m kind of disappointed,” he said referring to the 17 he ate during last year’s contest.
Though disappointed, Norcross said he plans on donating his winnings to the Honor Flight.
“I’m only here for the Honor Flight,” he said. “That’s my charity of choice. I donate to them out of every paycheck.”
Linus Drollette, the second place winner, finished with 10 Michigans.
“I took second; it feels great,” he said.
Drollete said he has been competing at the fair for around 12 years.
“The most I’ve eaten is 11. (The) secret? Just eat fast,” he said.
This was also the second year Drollette competed with his daughter Isabelle, who ate five Michigans.
When asked what it was like to compete with her father, she said it was “Kind of embarrassing,” as she laughed with him.
Third place went to David Souliere IV, who ate 10 Michigans.
“This is my third year doing this, I love it,” Souliere said. “I always donate my winnings to the Honor Flight. It’s a really good cause. They do so much for our veterans in the North Country.”
With over 10 contestants this year, Giroux said he’s proud of the turnout.
“It’s a good atmosphere and good for the fair,” he said. “And, you know, $20 to sign up isn’t much to win $100, $50 or $25, and support our veterans along the way.”