Brian and Harry in front of BBQ Island, sponsor store, in Tempe, AZ
We had a terrific time at our first contest in Arizona. I can’t thank Mike of AZ Barbeque and Tom of Whiskey Ranch BBQ enough for hosting such a superb event. It was well run and well organized. Thanks to BBQ Island for sponsoring as well as all the other sponsors. Thanks to Kelly and Kathleen for keeping the IBCA rules and scores moving smoothly along for the 33 teams who participated.
Mike (AZ BBQ), Brian, Harry, John (Chubby Hubby BBQ)
It was great to meet all the new Q-ers and to be part of the contingent of half dozen teams from California. We all tried our best and Slap Yo’ Daddy BBQ came in 5th (1st Pork, 4th Brisket, 9th Ribs) but the top honors go to Rhythm n Que from Arizona and Sweet Peppers New Mexico for Grand Champion and Reserve Champion respectively. It was great to meet the Sweet Peppers as I thought we were the only minivan team on the West Coast! Hey, Jim we should start a minivan competition group!
Congrats to all the teams who walked and for the first timers, it won’t be long before you’re hooked!
Mike, we can’t wait to be invited back! Glad everyone liked the Prawns in Jack Daniels Beurre Blanc Sauce with Marinated Artichokes and Sun-Dried Tomatoes over Black Calamari Ink Pasta.
Prawns in Jack Daniels Beurre Blanc Sauce with Marinated Artichokes and Sun-Dried Tomatoes over Black Calamari Ink Pasta
I was impressed by the creativity of the entries in the Backyard Category including Kebabs, Chicken, and Chili. Next time, I’m going to enter the more “creative” backyard contest. Here are some pics:
Prawns in Jack Daniels Beurre Blanc Sauce with Marinated Artichokes and Sun-Dried Tomatoes over Black Calamari Ink Pasta
My son Brian was my helper and assistant cook as my regular assistant Mark is on a newlywed hiatus and will be joining me for about half the contests this year. Good thing Brian got a good night’s sleep, so he drove the 400 miles home while I dozed fitfully so no problems with long-travel comps in the future!