In a fierce display of competitive eating on Independence Day weekend, Molly Schuyler solidified her dominance in the food sports world by claiming her 11th championship at the annual Z-Burger Independence Burger Eating Contest. Held at the Tenleytown Z-Burger location in Washington, D.C., the 16th edition of this annual event saw Schuyler set a new personal and contest record by eating 40 burgers in just 10 minutes.

Schuyler, a mother of four from Harwood, Maryland, entered the contest as a co-titleholder from the previous year, having tied with Dan “Killer” Kennedy in 2024 when both athletes consumed 34 burgers. This year, the rivalry intensified as Kennedy took an early lead by eating 33 burgers, but Schuyler caught up at 34 and powered through to an astonishing 40, crushing her previous record and walking away with the $2,000 grand prize.

Kennedy, who came in second, earned $1,250 for his efforts, remaining a top contender in a field full of skilled eaters. Third place went to Sean “The Mouth Eats” with 27 burgers, earning him a $1,000 prize. David “Tiger Wings and Things” Brunelli followed with 21 burgers for a $750 prize, and Robert McGee rounded out the top five with 18 burgers, taking home $500.

The event drew large crowds, cheers, and summer energy as spectators gathered to witness what has become a signature July 4 tradition for competitive eating fans in the region. This year’s contest continued to grow in recognition and excitement, as founder and Z-Burger proprietor Peter Tabibian noted the increasing prestige of the event within the competitive food world.

Over the years, the Z-Burger Independence Day contest has become more than a quirky holiday competition. It is now a platform where seasoned eaters and newcomers test the limits of human speed and stomach capacity. The event’s success is a mix of entertainment, athleticism, and community spirit, bringing together fans from across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Each year, the contest introduces new talents and delivers unpredictable results, but Schuyler’s consistency and unmatched drive have made her a fixture at the top of the leaderboard.

Molly Schuyler is no stranger to eating records. Known nationally for her food challenges and championship performances, she continues to redefine what's possible in a field where mental toughness, strategy, and raw capacity are equally critical. Her performance at this year’s Z-Burger event showcased her ability not only to compete under pressure but to raise the bar in front of a live audience.

The Tenleytown Z-Burger location was buzzing with holiday cheer as families, fans, and food lovers watched the drama unfold. The clear skies and festive atmosphere only added to the competitive heat as eaters raced against the clock, buns and patties disappearing in rapid succession.

Tabibian, the founder of Z-Burger, praised the competitors and the audience for making the event another successful celebration of food and fun. He emphasized the contest's growing role as a highlight of the region’s Independence Day festivities. He also acknowledged the incredible performances delivered by the participants, particularly the reigning champion.

With her latest win, Schuyler not only secured bragging rights but also etched her name even deeper into the lore of American competitive eating. Her 40-burger mark stands as a benchmark for future contests and a testament to the evolving intensity of this niche sport.

As the crowd dispersed and the cleanup began, the echoes of cheers and the smell of burgers lingered in the air—a perfect blend of celebration, spectacle, and tradition. For many, it was more than just a contest; it was an unforgettable moment of triumph that capped off a spirited start to the July 4 weekend.