Paul Clinton
A pool of challengers has begun lining up to unseat five-time
burrito-eating champ Lori Roberts in OC Taco House's annual Cinco de Mayo
celebration Sunday.
The Huntington Beach taco restaurant hosts a burritto-eating contest
every May 5. And since 1997, the 24-year-old Roberts has won the crown,
chomping down a three-pound burrito in record time.
Last year, Roberts set an all-time record for herself, finishing the
burrito in an eye-popping 1 minute 30 seconds.
Roberts, a figure skater, doesn't live in the city, but has made a
name for herself in Huntington Beach. Her picture hangs on the
restaurant's wall.
"She gets down and demolishes [the burrito]," said Jon Allen, the
restaurant's general manager. "It's a local tradition."
More than 30 challengers have already entered the contest and will
attempt to unseat Roberts, Allen said. Anyone can join the crowd until
shortly before the 1 p.m. event on Sunday.
The taco house hands out $500 cash and prizes to the top three
finishers. This year, everyone who enters the contest will be given a
free haircut at Great Clips 4 Hair, next door to the restaurant.
Coca-Cola is also sponsoring this year's contest, Allen said. The
company has provided merchandise to be given away at the event.
OC Taco House is at 5942 Edinger Ave.
