NEW YORK, NY July 03, 2008 —Tomorrow nitrates will become as patriotic as apple pie when the 93rd annual Nathan's hot dog eating contest in Coney island kicks off.

It's bound to be one for the history books when six time world champ Takeru Kobayashi, from Japan, battles to regain his title and win back the "Mustard Belt." Current champ, Joey Chestnut from San Jose, Calif., broke the world record at last year's eat-off by wolfing down 66 hot dogs in 12 minutes.

The hot dog contest is now two minutes shorter. Chestnut says that will change the pace and frankfurter eating strategy.

CHESTNUT: We're just going to have to get to our capacity faster - the last two minutes of every contest are a little bit slow - we're just trying to get to our capacity safely - this one we are going to rush a little bit more, push harder.

REPORTER: At the weigh in for the athletic eaters this afternoon, Kobayashi came in at 128 pounds. He confirmed he recently dyed his hair the color of mustard AND ketchup for tomorrow's competition. Champion Chestnut weighed in at a solid 210 pounds. The contest starts at noon.