The Florida BBQ Association’s Florida State Championship was held in Venice FL April 18-19, and 57 pro teams went head to head to see who would be best. When it was all over we were fortunate to come out with a 3rd in chicken, a 3rd in ribs, a 3rd in pork, and a 6th in brisket. This very consistent cook gave us a nearly 9 point Grand Champion victory over Reserve Grand!
(Facts: I won this contest the first year and I was on crutches with a broken ankle. This year I had 10 stitches in my forehead from an accident. Also my first GC since releasing the sale of my sauce to the public. Buy it here.)
The Venice contest has always been a top-notch event hosted by the Venice Sertoma Club. I’ve not seen a group of volunteers who work harder to make their event a success. I know the teams all appreciate the extra efforts, from the meet and greet on Thursday night, to the free dinner and breakfast for teams, to the nice Tervis Tumbler. Lot’s of infrastructure upgrades have been made with power and water. I think this contest will continue to be a favorite among teams for years to come. And it is very popular with the locals. Estimates were between 10,000 and 15,000 people in attendance to enjoy the big name bluegrass bands and the best in barbecue. Vendors all sold out!
A big thanks to my cousin George who came down and helped me all weekend, making my work easier. And to all of my sponsors for providing the best products:
- Big Poppa Smokers
- Grizzly Coolers
- Butcher BBQ
- 3 Eyz BBQ
- Wicked Que
- Go Concepts
- Winter Haven AAMCO
