Hopeful Marco "Mongo" Marquez (our cookie title holder from last year)  has his eye on the prize and is determined to walk away a champ this weekend. His totals have steadily crept up, but even with a boast-worthy 27 dogs, he lost last week's Kansas City qualifier. He's cautiously optimistic about his chances this weekend, saying, "I am not making any assumptions on Saturday's qualifier. I am -- and have been -- training as if a top 10 eater will be there."  No top 10 eaters are slated for this qualifier, but Marquez will no doubt be keeping an eye on spinach champ "Pretty Boy" Pete Davekos, the #20 ranked eater in the world, and the other local with some competitive eating history, Russ Witzke.

"I think that I am nervous and excited (more excited) about Saturday's qualifier," says Marquez. "It's in my own town, so that means that all my friends and family get to cheer me on.  I perform better when friends and family are present."

Want to cheer him on and see history in the making for yourself?  Here are the details:

What:   
Nathan's Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest Qualifier

Where: 
Sam's Club
7817 Park Meadows Drive
Lone Tree

When:  
Saturday, June 13

Time:    
The event starts at 11 a.m., with DJs and giveaways. At noon, there will be an amateur eating contest featuring pre-selected Sam's Club associates, community leaders (sorry, no names yet) and members. The qualifier will begin at 12:15 p.m.

• Word of Mouth