The first baguette eating competition in Vietnam will be held next month in Ho Chi Minh City with prizes totaling VND34 million (US$2,000), according to the organizers.

The competition, organized by local bread maker King Baguetteria, will take place every Saturday and Sunday in August and lasts until the end of the month.

Baguette lovers aged 14-60 from all over the world can compete for the title of “Baguette King 2008” and a first prize of VND20 million ($1,200).

The contest comprises three rounds in which competitors are required to consume four loaves of Vietnamese-style baguette with meat and vegetable fillings in 15 minutes, six loaves in 15 minutes, and eight loaves in 30 minutes respectively.

Entry registrations are available until July 31 at three King Baguetteria locations in the city: 261 Tran Quang Khai Street, District 1; 457A Tran Hung Dao Street, District 1; 353 Vo Van Tan Street, District 3.