Imagine eating nearly 34 sloppers in just eight minutes. Professional eater Geoff Esper of Oxford, Mass. did just that as he wolfed down many pounds of burger, Pueblo green chile, cheese and buns to take the World Slopper Eating Championship title for a third time on Saturday at the Colorado State Fair in Pueblo.
The fair is marking 150 years this year. The 11-day event got underway on Friday with all the favorites like the carnival, livestock shows and freaky fried foods ranging from deep-fried strawberries to batter-dipped candy bars and funnel cakes.
Another new wacky event also took place on opening day, the first-ever Colorado State Fair USA Mullet Championship official qualifying event. Fifteen men shook their mullets, told of their mullet inspirations and got the crowd excited as they vied to become the hair hegemony leader. Darius Nabors took home the title and the chance to compete in the “Mane Event” later this year.
A new local food booth also joined the venerable Pass Key Restaurant and Vineland United Methodist Church offerings this year. The new booth features chefs from the Fuel and Iron Food Hall in Pueblo. 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 competitions, big name national performers and Fiesta Day at the Fair with a parade, folk dancers and the Celebracion de los Charros spotlighting expert Mexican horsemen. The fair runs through Labor Day.
Editor's Note: CPR/KRCC is a media sponsor of the Colorado State Fair.
