Marathon Contest Kicks Off Stone Crab Season with Record Time

UPDATE: The 14th annual Stone Crab Eating Contest in Marathon, Florida, has just concluded with a thrilling finish that marks the start of stone crab season. Jonathan Martinescu of Fort Myers has claimed victory, cracking and consuming 25 stone crab claws in an astonishing 9 minutes and 46 seconds.

This lively contest, held on November 1, 2025, at Keys Fisheries, drew 50 contestants competing in 10 teams. Their mission was to devour as many claws as possible while racing against the clock. With penalties for any claw meat left uneaten, the stakes were high, fueling a competitive atmosphere.

Martinescu’s unique strategy involved using an oversized spoon, which he believes was instrumental in his win. “So, my strategy was a spoon…a lot bigger of a spoon,” Martinescu shared. Two years prior, he used a smaller utensil, highlighting how crucial his method was this time around.

In a fierce competition, Bonzi Xaykosy of Fort Lauderdale secured second place, showcasing his speed and technique. The excitement extended to team competitions as well, where Tom Zajac and Ryan Beckett finished strong with a record-breaking time of 6 minutes and 15 seconds.

The contest is not just a quirky local event; it signifies the start of stone crab season in the Florida Keys, which runs from October 15 to May 1 each year. As the largest processor of stone crab claws in the state, Keys Fisheries plays a vital role in both the local economy and culinary scene.

Participants came equipped with an array of tools, from hammers to mallets, but the event required more than just brute force. Contestants displayed remarkable skill and strategy, making it a true test of both speed and dexterity.

As the sun set over the Keys, laughter and cheers filled the air, underscoring the event’s festive nature. Whether they were seasoned competitors or first-timers, all participants embraced the spirit of community and celebration that the Stone Crab Eating Contest embodies.

Looking ahead, the excitement continues as more events are planned to celebrate the stone crab season. Participants and spectators alike are already buzzing about next year’s contest.

Stay tuned for more updates on this and other thrilling events in the Florida Keys!