Bbq competition!!!
Wow, what a whirlwind of a weekend! As a passionate backyard BBQ enthusiast, finally competing in a major KCBS-style event was an absolute dream come true. Our team, Butt Hurt BBQ, had been planning and practicing for months, and stepping onto that competition ground felt like entering the Super Bowl of smoking. From the moment we arrived, the energy was palpable. Setting up our station was a huge task – getting the tent perfectly pitched, arranging the BBQ grill and bags of charcoal just so, and positioning our trusty black BBQ smoker for optimal workflow. It's not just about cooking; it's about creating a well-oiled machine under pressure. You see other teams, like the folks from 'Laura Fletcher Cooking For A Cure,' all focused and ready, and it just fuels your own determination. Then came the cook day itself. The aroma of wood smoke filled the air, mingling with the scent of various rubs and sauces. Monitoring temperatures was critical, a precise dance between maintaining that sweet spot for tenderness and flavor. I remember constantly checking our smoker's thermometer, making sure it stayed consistently between 300 and 350 degrees Fahrenheit, especially for our pulled pork category. Every degree matters! We were particularly proud of our 'Patio Pulled Pork,' a recipe we've refined over countless backyard sessions. But it wasn't all smooth sailing. There were moments of doubt, unexpected flare-ups, and the constant battle against time. You learn quickly that flexibility and quick thinking are as important as your culinary skills. One of the biggest takeaways for me was how much you learn from these challenges, pushing yourself beyond what you thought was possible. It’s a true test of endurance and teamwork. The camaraderie among competitors, even rivals, is something truly special. Everyone shares a common love for BBQ, and there’s a genuine willingness to help or offer a word of encouragement. Watching the judges, with their stoic expressions, come by for the turn-in was nerve-wracking but also incredibly exciting. And then, the awards ceremony... hearing our team, Butt Hurt BBQ, called for 2nd place in the 'Cooking For A Cure 2023' for our Pulled Pork was an unforgettable moment. Holding that trophy, shaped like a BBQ grill, felt like concrete proof that all the hard work, late nights, and intense focus truly paid off. This competition was more than just a contest; it was an immersive learning experience, a chance to connect with the wider BBQ community, and a memory I'll cherish forever. If you're passionate about BBQ, I highly recommend diving into the competition scene. It’s challenging, rewarding, and an incredible way to hone your craft and make some amazing friends along the way!








