NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire - Feb 21, 2012) - EL AL, the national airline of Israel, will host the EL AL Israel Airlines National Hamantaschen Eating Championship on Thursday, March 8 in New York City, in celebration of the Jewish holiday of Purim. All Pro Eating will run the championship, during which competitors will have six minutes to consume as many hamantaschen (triangle-shaped pastries) as possible for the chance to win a flight to Tel Aviv. In addition, All Pro Eating is bringing in professional eater Will "The Champ" Millender, four-time and current New York stinky cheese eating champion, adding another competitive dimension to the festive event. Kosher hamantaschen will be provided by Borenstein Caterers, Inc.

"This championship will result in the first ever National Hamantaschen Eating Record," said Todd "The Hungry Genius" Greenwald, chairman of All Pro Eating, who will emcee the event.

Non-professional eaters interested in participating can submit a video on the EL AL Facebook page demonstrating their eating abilities (the more creative, the better!). Submissions will be accepted through February 28. EL AL Facebook fans will weigh in and winners will be chosen based on number of votes and eligibility. The 10 finalists will be notified on March 3 and must be present for the championship on March 8 which will take place in front of a live audience in New York City. The event will be streamed live via Facebook. For more information and to submit a video visit Facebook (EL AL Israel Airlines USA).

The prize for first place is a roundtrip ticket from New York (JFK or EWR) or Los Angeles nonstop to Tel Aviv on EL AL Israel Airlines. Second and third place winners will receive vouchers toward future flights for $500 and $250 respectively. If the first place winner eats more than the pro, he or she will win a second roundtrip ticket to Israel.

For information about EL AL or to book any EL AL flight, visit www.elal.com or call EL AL (800) 223-6700.