Competing In BBQ

Long days, quiet nights, fast finish.

Nothing really prepares you for the feel and experience of a BBQ Competition, especially your first.

There is an energy from the moment you arrive. Finding your spot, standing up the tents, tables, wash areas, grill and smoker set up, and finally, a place to rest.

The day starts out with the hustle of prep, getting checked in, but then there is the waiting. A lot of waiting.

If you did it right, you don’t have to start cooking until most of the world goes to sleep. During the first day, you can take your time and stay busy, along with a few good beers and friends to pass the time.

Nighttime is my favorite. Bonfires and smokers are rolling, the crackling of wood and people talking and laughing can be heard all around and there is a peacefulness and calm that sets in as you begin your cook and manage your fire. Some people sleep and take shifts, but that’s not for me. I’m awake for the long haul.

The teams are friendly, so chatting with neighbors is the norm. Taking a walk around the grounds, catching a glimpse at other set ups and preparations, even pulling up a seat with another team, to share a drink and share some stories.

Then the night ends, interrupted by the sunrise and the real work is about to begin.

Your brisket is almost ready, pork shoulders are following shortly, ribs are ready to go on and the chicken is patiently waiting. The next several hours are going to feel like a sprint.

Everything is in a different phase. Some items are resting, cooking, saucing, slicing, or pulling and you constantly feel like you’re forgetting something.

You are in a mad rush, while still cautiously assembling boxes and then calmly scurrying to the turn-in tent within your time limit. All the while, trying not to trip over something or yourself.

Once the last box is turned in, it’s time to eat and probably remember to breathe. All of that food can’t go to waste and it’s the best time to celebrate with friends, family and the other competitors.

You are physically and mentally exhausted yet still excites, while cleaning and packing, knowing the scoring is happening and waiting for the calls.

Win or lose, the experience is worth the price of admission and something that will be familiar and at the same time different, every time you compete.

Best of luck out there, and have fun!