Brats Per Minute (BPM)

Madison again served host to the World’s Largest Brat Fest over the Memorial Day weekend (Friday through Monday). The past world record, set in Madison on May 28-31, 2004, at 189,432 Johnsonville Brats consumed in 4 days, equated to 98.7 BPM (Brats per minute). This year, organizers again hoped to break the record and reach a goal of 200,000 brats.

After Day 2 of the festival, Madison had already consumed 107,672 brats, putting us on pace for a record breaking year. Organizers were feeling confident, but a little nervous that the supply of buns and brats might not last through the remaining two days. But Sunday’s overcast weather put a damper on brat spirits everywhere, dramatically slowing consumption and promising suspense for the coming day.

Thankfully (or not so thankfully), Madison came through with hordes of last minute brat eaters on Sunday evening to set a new world record of 191,712 brats. Last night, Karen and I placed a little wager on whether we would break the record. Unfortunately, and obviously not thinking clearly, I bet against the big eaters of Madison. Feeling confident, I went high stakes and put dinner at Jade Garden on the line. Obviously, I lost the bet. And Karen is now happily gloating, dreaming of Jade Garden's Chicken and Broccoli, compliments of Kristin. Karen might as well enjoy it while it lasts, because she never wins!