Pickle-eating contest, mascot race planned Saturday

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By William Holloman
Staff Writer

Folks in these parts are known for their love of pickles and can eat a bunch of them in one sitting. Now, it is time to see who can eat the most at the table.

The inaugural pickle eating contest is scheduled to be held this weekend at the 31st annual North Carolina Pickle Festival, at noon on Saturday at the corner of Center and James Streets.

Festival co-chair Julie Beck said there have been requests in the past for the pickle eating contest, and this year appears to be the time to “get it on.” Though it is not a professional eating event, the target to the teeth will be, of course, Mount Olive whole Kosher Dills.

Officials say contestants will be allowed five minutes to down their filled bowls.

There are event limitations. The field will be limited to 12 contestants: six men and six women, age 18 or more. Ms. Beck said a field of 10 will be accepted in advance of April 29, and contestants will enter on a first-come, first-served basis by calling the Mount Olive Area Chamber of Commerce at 919-658-3113, or by emailing president@mountolivechamber.com. Ms. Beck said two spots will be held open until the day of the event, and if there are more than one male or one female expressing an interest, there will be a random drawing.

In addition to bragging rights, the winner in each category receives a $30 first prize.

“It ought to be a lot of fun, and certainly creates a public event that focuses on our festival’s claim to fame. It is going to be dill-licious,” said Ms. Beck.

Well-known mascots from a variety of organizations are gearing up for another new big attraction scheduled for the 31st annual North Carolina Pickle Festival this weekend: a mascot race set to kick off at 2 p.m. on Saturday, also at the corner of James and Center Streets.

Headlining the competition is the always popular Ollie Q. Cumber. Don’t forget Mr. Pig; he will be there too. The University of Mount Olive is entering its mascot, the Trojan. Other participants include the Subway Man, Texas Roadhouse, Chick-Fil-A Cow and Baby Cow, Wilson Tob, Time Out Teddy from the local Exchange Club, Ronald McDonald, Ditto Dog, and Liberty Tax.

Don’t forget to come out for the event at 2 p.m. this Sat. at James and Center Streets.