Spain's first siesta competition,Sleep contest aims to save the siesta

Sleep contest aims to save the siesta - Scotsman.com News: "Some clutched pillows or stuffed animals, others fought back giggles as they sought to take a siesta in public. Amid the bustle of a shopping mall yesterday, people took part in what was billed as Spain's first siesta competition. The goal is to promote Spain's cherished post-lunch nap.

Contestants in the nine-day event had 20 minutes to snooze on sofas, timed by a doctor with a pulse-measuring device."
As economic times change, Spain's traditional post-lunch snooze is under siege. Today, in a sleepy protest, some Spaniards took things lying down — for fun and profit.In what was billed as the country's first siesta competition — the AP calls it a "nine-day snooze Olympiad" — Madridians in a mall flopped on bright blue sofas for 20 minutes and were timed on how long they dozed. Eight rounds will be held each day, with five contestants per round. Points are awarded to the first to fall asleep, best original sleeping position, best-dressed sleeper — and the loudest snorer.

The top prize, 1,000 euros ($1,400), will be handed out Oct. 23.