Gluttony for a Good Cause

Twenty-eight contestants, 1,600 chicken wings, cheers, applause ... nausea and, in a few cases, vomiting filled Hatboro-Horsham High School's gymnasium Wednesday evening during the 13th annual Wingbowl. 

In addition to winning prizes for the top chicken wing eaters, student council advisor Dave Thomas said the event helped to raise about $2,000, plus some canned goods for the student council's annual Feed A Friend holiday drive, which helps to provide a Christmas meal and at least two weeks of food to Hatboro and Horsham families in need. 

Overall winner and top male eater Dan Hicks, who scarfed down 48 wings in the competition said he fared better than his second place win last year. 

Although grinning from ear-to-ear with trophy in hand, Dan said he felt "horrible" immediately after the competition and had been "very close" to throwing up during the contest. 

His winning secret?

"Sprinting the first part and then pacing yourself," Dan told Patch afterward. 

Alina Gawlinski, who earned a fancy belt for her win among the girls, chowed down 34 wings for the win. 

"I got nauseous toward the end of every round," Alina said. "Water helped."

Alina said she wouldn't enter another eating contest because she felt "pretty terrible," but said it was her quick eating habits that spurred her entry in the first place. 

Lee's Hoagie House in Horsham donated the 1,600 wings (mild seasoned) for Wingbowl. 

Lee's owner Jon Waxman, who sat in the bleachers watching the eaters face off, said he was happy to help.

"It's a feel-good situation," Waxman said. "It's a win-win for everybody."