Former Knick Loses Burger Battle in Harlem

Cal Ramsey's title with the New York Knicks these days is Director of Special Projects and Community Relations. Projects don't get much more special than trying to finish a 24 oz. cheeseburger, fries and a 20 oz. soda in 20 minutes. That's the deal at Ottomanelli's Restaurant in Harlem, where anyone who finishes all the food wins themselves a free lunch.

Ramsey, who played seven games with the Knicks before becoming a TV broadcaster and filling several other roles with the team, tried on Thursday, with a reporter from the New York Times looking on. Alas, the Ottomanelli's burger was to Ramsey what Michael Jordan was to Patrick Ewing

Mr. Ramsey was wearing an N.Y.U. sweatsuit, and his huge hands made even the monster-burger seem like a White Castle slider. Alas, his stomach is not in proportion, perhaps. When Mr. Rivera announced “Ten minutes left,” Mr. Ramsey groaned and said, “I’m already out of gas.” 

Hopefully, Ramsey's attempt to tackle the unlikely won't prove to be an omen for his team's race for the playoffs. Only two men have ever completed the challenge, although there's still time for Eddy Curry to check it out before his contract comes to an end.

Josh Alper is a writer living in New York City and is a contributor to FanHouse.com and ProFootballTalk.com in addition to his duties for NBCNewYork.com.

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