BBQ Battle 2011

United Way of Nevada County held its 5th Annual BBQ Battle in downtown Grass Valley on Thursday, August 25th. If you missed this sizzling event, you missed out on some delicious barbecue and the cool sounds of the rock band Sols. The attendees enjoyed the mister tents and great music while the BBQ teams cooked over hot coals and gas grills creating delectable tastings. Hundreds of people showed up to taste and judge the winning teams. The winner of the People’s Choice award, for their delectable baby-back ribs, was “Team Monster Ribs” sponsored by Monster Gym, and headed up by team captain Kristian Hockinson.

There were also Critic’s Choice Awards, judged by five very experienced judges. They sampled all of the team’s BBQ and closely analyzed the food. During the blind-tasting, they judged the entries on texture, taste, tenderness and appearance. The first place winner of the Critic’s Choice Award was “Byers Smokin’ Squirrels”, including team captain Lance Bellows of Byers Leaf Guard. The second place winner of the Critic’s Choice Award was “Uptown Barber-Q-ers” headed up by Gary Evans of Uptown Salon. The third place winner of the Critic’s Choice Award was United Way’s team “The Meat Spinners” with team captain Gordon Beatie. The voting was very close and all of the teams served up delicious food.

A trip to Oahu was won along with numerous other raffle prizes. Thanks to all of the wonderful volunteers, including Melisa Mistler of M3 Mall for helping out during the event.

Thanks to all the sponsors who donated towards this fun event. A special “Thank You” goes out to Gold Miners Inn/Holiday Inn Express, DC Solar Electric, SPD, Grass Valley, Inc., Ke Iki Beach Bungalows and TriContinent. Look below to find all of our incredible sponsors.

All the proceeds from this event went to United Way and its 20 partner agencies.