06/15/2026
Well, I traveled out to Elk City last Saturday and competed in a Rib Cook Off Association event called RT66FEST. I only participated in two of the categories, steak, and spare ribs. I had great results. 1st in steak and 9th in spare ribs. Considering the company I was cooking in, I am humbled. I made sure to be extremely excited and happy when I walked up to the front because I didn't feel like being tackled by a big purple gorilla, Justin West! 🐒
Honorable mention goes to Lance Riggs because he saved my bacon( or steak)! We were set up close to each other and talked and collaborated all day. When I noticed him getting things going, I asked why he was jumping the gun. He mentioned the turn in time for steak, and I realized I was on the wrong timeline. I had done all my prep as I had been taught, so it was pretty simple to jumpstart and get on the timeline. But, without Lance, I would have been in real trouble. So, thank you my brother! From the bottom of my heart. I told him he had to walk with me, but we forgot. (We forgot to get a picture together! My apologies.)
Truly the best part of doing these competitions, are the people. Folks that I now call my friends and colleagues in the smoke. Too many names to mention all of them, but if it says anything, it says we are having fun, and making life long friendships.
I would like to give a shout out to my sponsors, whom without continued support or make it a lot more difficult. Thank you one and all for everything you do to keep me on the comp circuit.
Congratulations to everyone who heard their name called! Great times!
AND MY NEWEST SPONSOR:
