On the first day of the New Year, when the rest of the world is recovering from their respective hangovers, four contestants will embark on a mission few people could ever tolerate. These contestants must have the utmost stamina, determination and pride in order to succeed. With a $5,000 prize at stake, what must these contestants do? Be the ultimate couch potato. Sure, laugh, but this is serious business for some. As organizer Brian Hanover points out, it is “a lot more difficult than what it seems… you have to avoid falling asleep.” With the two-time champion Jason Pisarik sitting for forty straight hours last year, that’s a very long time to go without dozing. Out of the hundred-plus entries, only three will be selected to challenge the defending champ. They are selected “based on their passion for sports, creativity and determination,” and Hanover also notes that “one such individual sent in his entry to the tune of ‘Stairway to Heaven.’” The Sixth Annual Ultimate Couch Potato Contest is New Year’s Day at the ESPN Zone, 43 East Ohio.
