major league eating?!?!?!

Bill Myers, 35th ranked professional eater of Major League Eating's 50 top ranked contestants, spoke to my journalism class yesterday. It truly inspired to me to think about this yes... professional sport like I never had before. 
I knew that eating contests happened across the country (mostly in America of course) but I never thought of the extent of the profession, sponsors and hype involved. Personally, I am disgusted by anyone who can consume 16 hot dogs in 10 minutes. Currently the top female competitor is Sonya Thomas. She once ate 10% of her body weight in cheesecake. THAT is absurd. 
Myers said that most of the contestants throw up after every competition, but he never does. He also said that many of the contestants are thin and fit....... 
I just thought I'd consider what the appeal of eating so much food at one time is. I am assuming with these eaters it is the large sum of money. I think I'd much rather sit in an office but I guess there is something to be said about earning $5000 in 10 minutes. 
I think there's something to be said about American's fascination with supporting contests of who can eat the most in the shortest about of time.... gross if you ask me but I am open to other opinions on the subject.