Route 66: Big Texan Steak Ranch brings eating challenge to Springfield for Route 66 Centennial

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) - People from across the country are heading to Springfield for this weekend’s Route 66 Centennial celebrations, and in one case, they are bringing their own food with them.

The Big Texan Steak Ranch on Route 66 in Amarillo, Texas, is known for its steak-eating challenge, where competitors have an hour to eat a 72-ounce steak and all the fixings. To celebrate the 100th anniversary, the restaurant is taking the competition on the road, and the first stop is Springfield.

The Big Texan will pit four Missouri State University athletes against professional eater “Big Sam” on Thursday at the MSU Fan Fest. Competitors have to eat a 72-ounce steak, baked potato, fried shrimp, salad, and dinner roll to win.

The contest will be held at 3:30 p.m. Thursday at Missouri State University and will stream live on KY3.com.

“They have a couple of floats,” said Route 66 Centennial celebration organizer Cora Scott. “They’re very excited to be a part of the national kickoff.”

The Route 66 Centennial parade will be held at 6 p.m. Friday and will air live on KSPR.

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