In a remarkable display of skill and endurance, James Webb from Sydney, Australia, emerged as the victor of the second annual Wonderful Pistachios Get Crackin' Eating Championship, held at Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier on February 26, 2024, coinciding with World Pistachio Day.
Webb managed to consume an astounding 338 pistachios in just eight minutes, outperforming a field of the world's top-ranked competitive eaters and securing the $5,000 first prize. This year's competition saw an unprecedented face-off, featuring Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Joey Bosa against world champion competitive eater Joey Chestnut, alongside defending Pistachio Eating World Champion Nick Wehry and other top-ranked talents.
The event marked a significant moment in competitive eating history, as it was the first time an active professional football player competed against internationally-ranked Major League Eating athletes. The championship tested not just the competitors' eating speed but also their manual dexterity, requiring them to crack open each pistachio before consumption.
Diana Salsa, vice president of marketing for Wonderful Pistachios, celebrated the Joey vs. Joey battle as a win for sports fans and snacking enthusiasts alike. Meanwhile, Major League Eating's Sam Barclay highlighted the daunting challenge faced by Nick Wehry as he aimed to defend his title against a formidable international field.
The previous year's record set by Nick Wehry, with 188 Wonderful Pistachios eaten in eight minutes, stood as a benchmark for excellence and determination. The event, free and open to the public, not only offered thrilling competition but also served as a celebration of America's #1 Nut®, providing attendees with complimentary giveaways and family-friendly entertainment.
The Wonderful Pistachios Get Crackin' Eating Championship represents more than just a contest; it's an homage to competitive spirit and the joy of communal celebration against the scenic backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. With a total prize purse of $10,000, the competition underscored the allure of competitive eating and the enduring appeal of pistachios.