BEXLEY, Ohio (WCMH) -- The four-pound Ice Cream Challenge at Johnson's Real Ice Cream was nostalgic, beloved and, ultimately, too dangerous. With eight scoops of ice cream, three whole bananas and oodles of toppings, Johnson's boasted the sundae challenge as one of central Ohio's greatest. The ei ght toppings participants were required to choose were piled on alongside heaps of sprinkles, cherries, almonds and whipped cream. "The Ice Cream Challenge at our Bexley location began as a fun and playful way for our local fans to connect and celebrate their love for Johnson's Real Ice Cream," Johnson's CEO Matt Wilcoxon said. Hamburger chain to open in place of Melt at Easton The challenge was simple, promoted proudly on chalkboard and accompanied by a wall of fame decorated with photos. Participants could purchase the sundae challenge for $19.95 and race against the clock to become its newest victor. That familiar chalkboard is now erased, as Johnson's has discontinued its challenge after 13 years. Wilcoxon said as food challenges became more popular, the lighthearted intention of the sundae challenge was overshadowed by competitors from across the country wanting to try to beat the record, around 6 minutes by the end of the competition's run. "While we appreciated the attention, this shift made it increasingly difficult for our local community members to enjoy the challenge in the spirit it was intended," Wilcoxon said. "We also encountered situations where participants pushed themselves beyond their limits, which was never our intent." J. Gumbo's last central Ohio location closes after 13 years The sundae challenge has been featured on multiple food YouTube channels, most attracting thousands of views. Wilcoxon said the intense competition just didn't align with the challenge's playful intention. "We value the health and well-being of our guests, and we want to ensure that every experience at Johnson's is positive and family-friendly," Wilcoxon said. The challenge was only available at the original Bexley location, which is celebrating its 75th year. It now has seven shops around Columbus, with a Powell location opening in April and a Pickerington spot opening in May. "For 75 years, we’ve always been about family, fun and making sweet memories, and we want to continue fostering that environment," Wilcoxon said. "We thank everyone who participated and made it a memorable part of our history." ...read more read less