Top teams from across #Alberta competed for the grand champion title. Congrats to the winners! 🎉
#BBQ #Didsbury #Olds #Foodie #BBQCompetition
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BBQ Battle Heats Up in Didsbury: A Weekend of Smoky Competition and Community Spirit
Twenty-nine of Canada’s top BBQ teams converged in Didsbury for a fierce two-day showdown, all vying for the grand champion title and a coveted spot in the prestigious American Royal BBQ and Jack Daniel’s BBQ competitions. The event, hosted by the Didsbury Lion’s Club, marked the 4th annual Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) master series barbecue contest, drawing enthusiasts and top-notch grillers from across the region.
A Sizzling Success
Held at the picturesque Didsbury Agricultural Society grounds, just north of town, the event was a feast for the senses. The air was thick with the mouth-watering aroma of slow-cooked meats as competitors fired up their grills and smokers, each aiming to impress the judges and claim top honors.
Barry Kreiser, a local favorite from Kreiser Barbecue Company, celebrated the event’s success, noting the exceptional level of competition. "The 2024 event was fantastic, with great competitors and an enthusiastic crowd. The judges, who undergo special training to ensure fairness, had their work cut out for them this year," Kreiser remarked.
Crowning the Champions
After two intense days of grilling and smoking, Rob Craats from Red Cliff emerged as the grand champion, earning the opportunity to compete on a larger stage at the American Royal BBQ and Jack Daniel’s BBQ competitions. Calgary's own Janice Smella took the reserve grand champion title, while Barry Kreiser himself secured third place in brisket, first in chicken, and sixth overall. The precise amount raised during the event was not immediately available, but the funds will support the Didsbury Agricultural Society.
More Than Just BBQ
The BBQ contest wasn’t the only attraction over the weekend. Running concurrently was the Crooked Horn Junior Rodeo (CHJR) on Saturday, which also saw a robust turnout of competitors and spectators. The rodeo added to the vibrant atmosphere, providing a full day of entertainment for attendees. Complete results of the Didsbury rodeo will be available on the CHJR website.
Community and Charity
The Didsbury Lions Club, renowned for its dedication to community service, organized the event. The club has been an integral part of the community since 1944, supporting various projects and groups, including the Mountain View Food Bank, the Christmas hamper program, high school scholarships, and local disaster relief efforts.
Lions Clubs International, to which the Didsbury Lions Club belongs, is the largest membership-based service club organization in the world. It supports a wide range of causes, including vision, hunger, the environment, childhood cancer, diabetes, humanitarian aid, youth, and disaster relief.
Behind the Scenes
The Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) plays a crucial role in these competitions. As a nonprofit organization, KCBS is dedicated to promoting and enjoying barbecue. It’s the world’s largest organization of barbecue and grilling enthusiasts, boasting members worldwide and sanctioning over 400 barbecue contests annually.
This year’s event once again demonstrated the spirit and passion of the BBQ community. Competitors traveled from all over Alberta and western Canada to participate, bringing with them a diverse array of styles and techniques. The camaraderie and friendly competition were evident as teams exchanged tips and stories, all while keeping a close eye on their grills.
The Impact of Events Like These
Events like the Didsbury BBQ contest are more than just competitions; they are vital community gatherings that bring people together, showcase local talent, and support charitable causes. The funds raised help sustain the Didsbury Agricultural Society, ensuring the continuation of its programs and initiatives.
The Didsbury Agricultural Society itself is a cornerstone of the community, providing a venue for events, supporting local agriculture, and fostering a sense of community pride. Through events like the BBQ contest, the Society not only raises necessary funds but also brings attention to the importance of local agriculture and community engagement.
Looking Ahead
As the smoke clears and the last embers die down, the focus shifts to the future. The Didsbury Lion’s Club is already looking forward to next year’s competition, aiming to make it even bigger and better. The success of this year’s event sets a high bar, but the community’s enthusiasm and support suggest that the best is yet to come.
For the competitors, the journey doesn’t end here. With the grand champion and reserve grand champion titles under their belts, Rob Craats and Janice Smella now have their sights set on the American Royal BBQ and Jack Daniel’s BBQ competitions. Their success in Didsbury is a testament to their skill and dedication, and they will undoubtedly represent Canada with pride on the international stage.
Conclusion
The 4th annual Didsbury Kansas City Barbeque Society contest was a celebration of culinary excellence, community spirit, and charitable giving. It brought together the best BBQ teams in Canada, delighted attendees with delicious food and exciting competition, and raised funds for worthy causes. As the Didsbury community looks ahead to future events, the memories of this year’s contest will surely linger, inspiring even greater participation and support.
Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast, a community supporter, or simply someone who enjoys a good time, the Didsbury BBQ contest is an event that showcases the best of what community gatherings have to offer. Until next year, the champions and their competitors will continue to hone their craft, ready to fire up their grills once more in pursuit of BBQ glory.