'The Beast' devours competition at Taste of Rathdrum

RATHDRUM — Even though the famed Joey Chestnut didn’t make an appearance, the hot dog eating contest at Taste of Rathdrum still drew a crowd Saturday.  

Contestants had five minutes to wolf down as many hot dogs — complete with hot dog buns — as possible, aided only by water. Hot dogs and buns for the contest were provided by Super 1 Foods. Dozens of family members cheered contestants on from the grass as they enjoyed food and drinks from local vendors.  

Four contestants battled it out in the youth division, but the heat was on between brother and sister Gideon “The Beast” and Lindy “Butterfly” Boe. After going dog-for-dog for most of the five minutes, Gideon won first place after eating five hot dogs. “The Beast” took home a hot dog trophy and a free pizza from Cascadia Pizza Company.  

As for the adult division, three contestants took the stage for another close race. After a 7-7 tie, neither man seemed too enthusiastic about taking the competition to “overtime,” and first place was ceded to Branden Rien to the thrill of his cheering family in the crowd.  

Saturday’s event also included a car show, a cornhole tournament, a barbecue cookoff, live music and a vendor market.  

    "The Beast" Gideon Boe took first place in the youth division of Taste of Rathdrum's Hot Dog Eating Contest, while his sister, Lindy, "The Butterfly," took second place.
  

    Branden Rien was declared winner of the adult division of the Hot Dog Eating Contest after downing seven dogs.