Joey Chestnut (2nd L) is announced the winner over Takeru Kobayashi of Japan (2nd R) at Nathan's annual hot dog eating contest in the Coney Island section of New York July 4, 2009. Chestnut set a world record by eating 68 hot dogs in 10 minutes. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    BEIJING, July 6 (Xinhuanet) --Joey Chestnut of San Jose, Calif. chomped down a record 68 hot dogs, capturing his third straight July Fourth contest at Coney Island of New York, according to media reports Monday.

    As soon as he knew he had won, he shot his right fist into the air, his mouth still bulging while he chewed the last of his wieners at Nathan's Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest. It is an annual showcase for flamboyant hot dogging contestants eager to show they really are what they eat.

    The 25-year-old Chestnut played following his 68 to 64 1/2 dog victory over his Japanese rival, six-time titleholder Takeru Kobayashi.    

    His lead was a contrast to 2005, when Kobayashi trounced Chestnut 49 dogs to 32 dogs.

    And the number of dogs consumed showed how far the contest has come since the first one in 1916, when 13 dogs were enough to win. Even by 2000, 25 dogs secured victory. 

    (Agencies)

Joey Chestnut reacts after winning the Nathan's annual hot dog eating contest in the Coney Island section of New York, July 4, 2009. Chestnut set a world record by eating 68 hot dogs in 10 minutes.(Xinhua/Reuters Photo) Photo Gallery>>>