Zaco's Taco's First Annual Taco Eating Contest!

 First, because I'm sure it's a burning question, no one threw up. As spectators, we were pleased. But I'll flash backward from that. Despite a few logistical glitches, ok, maybe more than a few - it was a first time thing after all - eventually the nine contestants were ready to go and the games began, cheered on by onlookers who did not really want to order a taco anytime soon. Before starting, the Doug's and Mariel played some tunes, a mellow Sunday on the deck type of tunes. That all changed as they notched it up into every song ever written as the soundtrack for that moment leading up to the kapow. Well done!

Some of the usual suspects

Hola, Rachel!

Hola! Pat!

Hola...rooster

Always appropriate with the accessories

The crowd starts to gather - who knew a couple of those innocent looking people would soon be engaged in the food fight of their lives?

Figuring logistics. This changed about 10 times.

The contestants gather. Visitors from St. Thomas and Miss Yellow Dress from Chicago jumped right in

Beside the 100.00 prize, there was the BELT.

Hot sauces were available (and used maybe too often)

Rachel looks dubious. I don't know why.

But she makes a great belt model!

Are we ready yet?

Prepping their tacos

Monika moderated

Zach was ready! With a soon not so secret plan.

GO!

This guy told me later his first bite was almost his last.

Water/Aqua was a very popular beverage

The only female contestant, wearing her specially chosen expandable dress.

Still going strong but not exactly like television

 They thought they were eating like this

 They really were eating like this

The music raced in the background

Slowing down

And down

The most bored looking fast food eater in history

The pressure was showing

Zach's secret method was to eat the content of the tortilla, then dip the tortilla in water. Which seemed like a strange strategy but I have no doubt Zach had sussed it out.

Time!!!

Zach' method didn't cinch the belt, instead it was this guy, from St. Thomas. And it was his birthday too.

I think all of the guys were very happy to watch his girlfriend congratulate him.

Well done, first Taco Eating Contest participants! You gave us ten minutes of fun. 

Next year, I think they'll have to build a bigger deck. And we need more local contestants! Thanks, Zach & Monika. I'm still a little queasy thinking about eating a taco, but I know that will soon pass.

Have a meanderingly masticating Monday. Do something munchy.