Fishball eating contest ‘Superball’ steals Super Bowl spotlight
Photo from Francis Rivera/Facebook
For Filipinos abroad, a trip to the Philippines to satisfy one’s cravings for good ol’ street foods like kwek-kwek and fishballs can cost a hefty price. Luckily for these Filipinos in SoCal who joined Superball over the weekend — they had unlimited fishballs.
The 3rd Annual Superball Fishball Eating Contest – held a day before the Super Bowl – is a battleground where the only weapons allowed are the bite-sized fishballs — a competition showing the blending of competitive spirit and Filipino eats in Southern California.
Bringing forth the communities for camaraderie and a taste of Filipino flair, this event last Feb. 10, hosted by Island Pacific Seafood Market in Santa Clarita in collaboration with Mekeni Philippines and SoCal Filipinos, was more than just a fishball eating competition – it was a community celebration.
Last year, Gener De Guzman bagged the championship devouring a total of 36 fishballs in a minute. This year, the contest was fiercer with more fishballs on the line.
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Mohammed Mbenque took home this year’s crown setting a new record of eating 60 fishballs in a minute. His prize? $1000 with some bragging rights on the side.
Meanwhile, Kevin Ross was not far behind as the first runner-up finishing up with 40 fishballs. Ross, not a newbie in the Island Pacific competitions, had also competed in the Lumpia Eating Contest in 2023.
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A collision of Filipino culture and delights
More than just the competitive air surrounding Superball in SoCal, it’s also a feast for the tastebuds and the senses. Bringing traditional Filipino folk dances to life, the Dalisay Filipino American Dance Company took centerstage.
In addition, Ylona Garcia’s soulful voice echoed while Gingee blended kulintang beats with EDM — creating a fresh musical experience. Q-York’s Know Lazarus rocked SoCal with his dynamic energy as the official hypeman.
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Overseeing the contest were judges Joe Arciaga and DJ Kym — the famous Fil-Am foodie with the Instagram handle @Snacksandslowjam. Aside from their keen observation and judgment, their commentaries also added a layer of entertainment while event participants awaited the announcement of the winner.
What’s next?
Hold on to your seats as the fun doesn’t end with fishballs — lumpia is next. Island Pacific and their partners are already gearing up for the next showdown: the Lumpia Eating Contest set for March 16, 2024 at the Union City, Nellis and Granada Hills locations of Island Pacific.
If you love lumpia (like most of us do), maybe you have what it takes to be the next eating champion. Check out Island Pacific on Instagram and Facebook for more updates.
