NBC.com

Ho, Ho, Ho! Daren Ferden's Christmas wish came true when he won $50,000 as champion of the special Christmas Fear Factor competition. Here's what jolly Daren had to say about the experience.

What did you think when you learned you'd be on the Christmas Fear Factor? Had you seen last year's?
When I learned I was going to be on the Christmas Fear Factor. My first thought was I hope they don't make me wear elf tights. Then I thought about what the gross stunt might have been. Eating Reindeer BALLS?

Did you have any fears or phobias going into the competition?
My biggest phobia was snakes. I hate those things. I hate to even see snakes on T.V.

When did you devise your "sled" technique? It seemed to work the best and other players wound up copying you.
My "sled technique" came to me as soon as I got on the sled. Because the sled was on a downward slope I did not want to stand up too soon and slip off. So I waited for the sled to become level [then stood up].

In retrospect, are you happy with your decision to stick with the live worm sausage on the second stunt, or would something else have been easier to swallow?
The reason I chose the nasty worm sausage is I've seen people eat worms on previous shows and they lived. Some of the other things that were up for grabs I've never heard of. Like the stuff Brian had to eat [ant-covered cod sack]. I still don't know what that is or was. Nasty just nasty!!!

Were you surprised that Selena gave up?
I wasn't that surprised when Selena gave up. Whoever got that "gift" was no doubt in my mind going to throw it up. Projectile style! It smelled so bad that I still have nightmares about it.

Were you surprised that Brian blew it by letting time run out while he ran his mouth?
Was I surprised that Brian blew it? Yes, he thought in his mind and out loud that he was the s*#t and believed he was going to win. He just might of [won] if he made it to the third stunt. Ha Ha!

What was most difficult about the final stunt?
The final stunt "Fire Water" was the hardest thing that I have ever done. That stunt took every ounce of energy that I had in my body, mind, and soul.

Did you think Julian could actually beat your time?
The way Julian started the last stunt I thought that he had a chance to beat my time. But Joe Rogan reminded me that I finished the stunt in 2 minutes and 48 seconds. Wasn't going to be no walk in the park to beat. So Joe gave me hope, Thanks Joe.

What was your favorite part about the competition (besides winning!)?
My favorite part about the competition was just to be chosen to be on Fear Factor. I was exhilarated to hear these little words: "Daren FEAR IS NOT A FACTOR for you!!!!!!!"

What's the plan for the $50,000?
My plan for the 50Grand is to party, invest and party.