104 thor
the giants had assembled to meet them. Utgard-Loki
told the visitors they must prove themselves worthy
to stay by demonstrating a great skill.
Loki immediately announced that no one could
beat him at eating. One of the giants placed a huge
platter in front of Loki and sat down on the other
side of it. The two began gobbling and in no time
bumped heads as they met in the middle of the plat-
ter—or what was left of it. The giant had eaten his
half of the wooden dish, along with all the bones, so
he won the contest.
Next, young Thjalfi claimed that he was the
fastest runner in the world. Utgard-Loki called
forth a young giant named Hugi, and marked out a
racecourse. Thjalfi was indeed as swift as the wind,
but he was no match for Hugi. Thjalfi lost the race
and retired to Loki’s side, humiliated.
Thor strode forward, claiming that he was well
known as a mighty drinker. The gia