Palisades Tahoe is known worldwide as a world-class ski resort and a bastion of athleticism. On Saturday, April 16th, 2011, extremists of another sort will showcase their talents at the annual Mamasake Hand Roll and Wasabi Eating Championships.

Mamasake, the hip, popular Palisades Tahoe sushi restaurant, located in the heart of the Village at Palisades Tahoe, is known for its vibrant atmosphere, exceptional and creative sushi and tapas dishes and its daily $5 happy hour  "Beer and a Hand Roll" special. Each spring, the restaurant's unique competition, now in its 7th year, holds its own in the world of competitive eating.

Split into two categories, competitors go head-to-head and taste bud-to-taste bud to gain the title and international acclaim as Wasabi Eating Champion and Hand Roll Consuming Gladiator.

The hand roll-eating contest pits the contestants against the clock and a huge plate of sushi. The competitor who devours the most of his or her hand rolls within five minutes running time claims the top podium.

During the Wasabi eating event competitors ingest increasing amounts of Wasabi in a series of heats, until a winner has left opponents incapable of continuing and crying in their sake.

Celebrity judges, swag giveaways and Master of Ceremony Kevin Finnen add to the festivities.

Registration is at 3pm and the event starts at 4pm on Mamasake's outdoor patio. Pre registration is also available throughout the week. Entry is free. Entrants are limited in each category. Prizes are awarded to top three finalists.

The public is invited to attend and spectate at this eye-watering, gut-wrenching competition and all ages are welcome. Libations and food are available, including an all-day $5 beer and hand roll and other specials.

The Mamasake Hand Roll and Wasabi Eating Championships is sponsored by  Mamasake, Primo Beer, Snowbomb.com, The Village at Palisades Tahoe, Palisades Tahoe Ski Corp, and Tahoe TV.

This year's event will be shown in a live video webcast by Tahoe TV. For details, visit www.tahoetopia.com.

Mamasake opens daily at 11:30 a.m. For more information call Mamasake at (530) 584-0110 or visit mamasake.com.