Sat. Feb. 3

If you're like us, the first time you heard of "competitive eating," you went "What the hell ...?!" and thought about the millions of people starving in the world and the audacity of stuffing yourself for ... money? pride? just to win at something? We've since learned a little more about the field (sport?), and just saw a rather sympathetic dramatic piece on "Without a Trace," that keyed in on a complex, tender competitive eater. It's still a weird thing, but so is ultimate fighting and the idea of video games as a spectator sport. Here in town, Atwood's Tavern in Inman Square is presenting "The Bacon Eating Contest" on Saturday February 3 at noon. Ten contestants will have five minutes to eat the most bacon. Now, consider bacon: This is the tastiest thing in the world - if you're not a vegan - and it's been something we wrestle with because we know a) how good it is and b) how bad it is for us. In England a few years ago, we stayed at a hotel where the (included) breakfast featured unlimited bacon and it was almost astounding we didn't gain a couple of inches on the wasteband and had enough self-control to say when. So, that's our experience. Take it for what it's worth and go see or indulge at Atwoods if that's what gets you off. If you want to compete, get registration materials at the bar. (Atwood's opened nine months ago; this is its first bacon eating contest.) Winner gets a five pound assortment of gourmet bacon and a copy of "Seduced by Bacon: Recipes & Lore About America's Favroite Indulgence." Slightly lesser prizes down the ranks. 

877 Cambridge St., Cambridge, 617-864-2792 atwoodstavern.com