Freehold NJ hot dog eating contest: Challenge yourself at Jersey Freeze this July 4th

Have you always dreamed of becoming the next Joey Chestnut?

If so, there's no need to make the trek to Coney Island for Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest this Fourth of July. Jersey Freeze in Freehold Township is seeking competitors for its first contest, which will take place during the restaurant and ice cream shop's annual party to view the fireworks at nearby Freehold Raceway.

"Every year, we always have a huge party in our parking lot ... with hundreds of people," said Matt Cangialosi, co-owner of Jersey Freeze. "It's our biggest night, so we look for things to keep people entertained from 7 until the fireworks."

More: Jersey Freeze in Freehold: How a teen worker became the owner

They offer face painting and dancing and thought "What else can we do?" he said. "We love the Nathan's hot dog contest, and everyone's here anyway ..."

Details are still being ironed out, but Cangialosi said the plan is to invite 10 competitors to eat as many hot dogs as possible in 10 minutes (Chestnut ate 62 in that timeframe during Nathan's contest last year). The contest will most likely take place about an hour before the fireworks begin.

There will be a cash prize for the winner, and proceeds from contest-related sponsorships will be donated to the East Freehold Fire Department.

If you're brave enough to take on the challenge, reach out to Jersey Freeze on Instagram or email [email protected]. Potential sponsors should message event co-organizer Michael Sclafani on Instagram.

Sarah Griesemer joined the USA TODAY NETWORK New Jersey in 2003 and has been writing all things food since 2014. Send restaurant tips to [email protected], follow on Instagram at Jersey Shore Eats and subscribe to our Jersey Shore Eats newsletter.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Jersey Freeze to host hot dog-eating contest on 4th of July