Imagine eating nearly 34 sloppers in just eight minutes. Professional eater Geoff Esper of Oxford, Mass. did just that after wolfing down several pounds of burgers, Pueblo green chili, cheese and buns to claim the World Slopper Eating Championship title for the third time Saturday at the Colorado State Fair in Pueblo.
This year the fair marks its 150th anniversary. The 11-day event kicked off Friday with all the carnival favorites, livestock shows and wacky fried foods ranging from fried strawberries to batter-dipped candies and funnel cakes.
Shanna Lewis/KRCC NewsAnother unusual new event also took place on opening day, the Colorado State Fair’s first official USA Mullet Championship qualifying event. Fifteen men rocked their mullets, told of their mullet inspirations and thrilled the crowd as they battled to become the leader of hair hegemony. Darius Nabors took home the title and the opportunity to compete in the Mane Event later this year.
Shanna Lewis/KRCC NewsA new local food booth also joined the venerable Pass Key Restaurant and Vineland United Methodist Church offerings this year. The new stand features chefs from Pueblo’s Fuel and Iron Food Hall. It has a changing menu including New Orleans-style Po’ Boy sandwiches, ramen, vegan corndogs, tacos and more.
Still to come are more 4H livestock contests, big-name national performers and Fiesta Day at the Fair with a parade, folkloric dancers and expert Mexican riders lighting up the Celebracion de los Charros. The fair continues through Labor Day.
Shanna Lewis/KRCC News
Shanna Lewis/KRCC News
Shanna Lewis/KRCC News
Shanna Lewis/KRCC News
Shanna Lewis/KRCC News
Shanna Lewis/KRCC News
Shanna Lewis/KRCC News
