Hill Country's First Annual Rib Eating Competition

Competitor 1: Mark Haley

Only two years old, Flatiron barbecue fortress Hill Country has become Manhattan's go-to pitstop—known not only for Texas-style ribs and brisket, but for hosting lively events like SNL wrap parties and countrified ‘80s cover bands. To celebrate big number two, founder Marc Glosserman challenged local ‘cue fans to put mind over metabolism in a 10-minute, no-holds-barred rib-eating competition. Nine amateur competitive eaters showed up Saturday afternoon—many sporting nicknames like "Hailstorm" and "Ravioli Royalty"— to compete for a not-so-amateur purse: $100 HC gift certificate and the distinction of Honorary Pitmaster at next weekend's Big Apple Barbecue.

La Frieda V.P. Mark Pastore and The Feedbag's Josh Ozersky judged/heckled competitors as they spiked cholesterol to glory. Thankfully, none of the shiny "reversal of fortune" buckets were utilized—a credit, or possible criticism, to the green gluttons. (The winner was a mere SEVEN POUNDS off Joey Chestnut's world record). So who won? Results and a post-gorge interview with the champ revealed at the end.