World champion competitive eater Takeru Kobayashi plans to establish a world record for most hot dogs eaten in ten minutes at this year’s New York State Fair. Sponsored by Central New York icon, the Hofmann Sausage Company, the country’s oldest purveyor of premium sausages and hot dogs, this event is sure to be one for the history books.

Kobayashi joined the Hofmann “dream team” of ownership last month as a business partner and brand ambassador. The signing added Kobayashi to the Hofmann team that includes lead investor the Oneida Indian Nation, Roger Staubach, Frank Zaccanelli, Phil Romano, and Jim Boeheim. It also a launched new business division designed to expand the U.S. and international reach of Hofmann Hot Dogs.

Kobayashi, The Japanese eating sensation, has claimed dozens of competitive eating titles over the past decade, including world record-setting performances of downing 69 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes in July 2011 and, most recently, consuming 106 soft tacos in 10 minutes. At his next performance August 26 at the New York State Fair, Kobayashi plans to put away as many bunless Hofmann Hot Dogs as he can in ten minutes.

Kobayashi said, "I've never experienced the New York State Fair, so I am really excited to see what it's all about. This appearance will mark the first athletic challenge through my new partnership with Hofmann Hot Dogs. I'm psyched to set a new record on a new stage with a brand I totally love. I plan to cruise through this 10 minute bunless challenge like lightning. See you all there!”

Hofmann Hot Dogs CEO Frank Zaccanelli said, “Over the years I have worked with many athletes. Takeru Kobayashi is a master of his craft and without a doubt the best athlete in competitive eating. We have entered into a great partnership with Kobi that will help us mature from a regional icon to a national and international brand."

New York State Fair Director Dan O’Hara said, “We are pleased to work with one of our new sponsors and an iconic New York institution, the Hofmann Sausage Company, in bringing Takeru Kobayashi, the world’s greatest competitive eater, to our 2012 New York State Fair. We look forward to his world record attempt on our Chevy Court Stage.”

Kobayashi also serves as worldwide brand ambassador for the Hofmann Hot Dog Company and his personalized brand of Hofmann Hot Dogs. As part of these duties, Kobayashi plans to make personal appearances on behalf of Hofmann Hot Dogs around the world including a performance at the Texas State Fair in October. He’ll also be a regular visitor at Turning Stone Resort Casino, the worldwide headquarters for Hofmann Hot Dogs marketing activities.

Takeru Kobayashi plans to set the world hot dog eating record at the New York State Fair’s Chevy Court, 5:30 p.m. Sunday, August 26. Media is welcome to attend.

Hofmann Sausage Company is a high-quality meat manufacturer and distributor based in Syracuse, N.Y. The company offers more than 80 products, which are available in a variety of retail locations and online. For more information, visit www.hofmannhotdogs.com and www.facebook.com/hofmannhotdogs.