UI Cans Corn Competition

By: Steve Nicoles, Reporter

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By Steve Nicoles

Story Created: Sep 13, 2007 at 6:20 PM CDT

Story Updated: Sep 13, 2007 at 6:20 PM CDT

IOWA CITY - The Hawkeyes play ISU this weekend. The University of Iowa is in the middle of "beat state week." But the school says it has had its fill of one contest in particular. Apparently there is such a thing as too much sweet corn.

The University of Iowa was supposed to have a day of burgers and blues. Only the burgers were corn and the blues were more than music. There is a certain sadness that comes with the cancellation of a corn-eating contest. Shannon Thomas of the Alumni Association said, “There has been some disappointment about the fact we can't go through the corn-eating contest."

The university stuffed away the concept of food competitions, saying they promote poor eating habits. UI senior Leslie Amonoo said, “I think I can eat 20 ears of corn in 12 minutes. I'm not sure, but I think I can." When asked if he considers that gluttony, he said, “When you put it that way it might be a little gluttonous, but hey, it's a contest right?"

Students we talk to say they do not want to be in an eating contest. There is just something about watching them. Junior Emily Sieren said, “I'll save the embarrassment for them."

Junior Kelly Salm said, “It's one of those amazing things you're like wow i could never do that."

The university says it wants to promote healthy eating. A university official says it is not even about the corn, but creating a change in eating habits. The university also cancelled a bratwurst eating contest. The vice president of student services says it is important to raise awareness of healthy living. He does not know of another university is banning eating competitions.

Email Steve Nicoles at Steve.Nicoles@kcrg.com

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