[originaltext] (32) County fairs are a tradition in New England towns. They

(32) County fairs are a tradition in New England towns. They offer great entertainment. One popular event is the pie-eating contest. If you want to take part in the contest, it is a good idea to remember these guidelines: (33) first, make sure your stomach is nearly empty of food. Eating a whole pie can be hard if you have just finished a meal. Next, it is helpful to like the pie you are going to eat. The cream types are a good choice. They slide down the throat more easily. Placing your hands in the right position adds to the chances of winning. There is a temptation to reach out and help the eating process. This will result in becoming disqualified. (34) Don’t just sit on your hands, if your hands are tied behind your back, you will not be tempted to make use of them.
    Now you are ready to show your talent at eating pies. The object, of course, is to get the bottom of the pie plate before the other people. (35) It is usually better to start at the outside and work toward the middle. This method gives you a goal to focus on. Try not to notice what the other people near you are doing. Let the cheers from the crowd spur you on. But don’t look up. All you should think about is eating that pie.