Well the status of this year's contest was shaky to say the least. A week or so before the contest word was that it was to be cancelled due to lack of interest and team participation.

My entry had been sent in months before, and even I was worried as I hadn't received the normal cook's packet in the mail and the website (which is normally dreadfully outdated) was in even more disarray.

Yeah, it's true. Word on the street is that the Ohio Smoked Meat Festival in Nelsonville, Ohio will be cancelled this year due to lack of interest in teams. 5 or 6 teams, including ours were the only teams signed up. I am completely bummed out about this as this was definitely our favorite venue as well as being our home state.

However the BBQ train keeps chugging along, and we have decided to compete in the Diamond State BBQ competition in Dover, Delaware. I spoke with the organizer yesterday and they are currently at 77 teams, we'll make 78. That makes it the largest competition on the east coast, larger than New Holland's "Summerfest". It is also a very interesting venue as we'll be setting up on the infield of "The Monster Mile" at Dover International Speedway.

Well, if you're as ticked as me about the contest in Nelsonville, Ohio pooping out on you. There is still time to get in on the contest in Dover, DE the same weekend. I just spoke with one of the contest organizers and he assured me there is PLENTY of space.

From their website:

The Diamond State BBQ Championship is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS). Judging starts at Noon on Saturday, October 20, using the blind judging technique.

The contest consists of four categories: Brisket, Poultry, Pork Ribs, Pork Shoulder. The rules are posted here. If you would like to register, please download the entry form. If you have any questions, please contact Melinda Fantozzi at (302) 857-2169.

Well, as usual the contest organizers are behind the 8 ball when it comes to disseminating information regarding this year's contest. But I have it on good authority (thanks Dallas) that the contest for 2007 is indeed on and scheduled as planned.

I even received an advanced copy of the application and have attached it below for you to download.

Dates:
October 19th-20th

Further Information:
Joseph Steele
Director of Sales and Marketing
THE INN at Hocking College
740-753-3531 ext 7302
http://www.ohiobbq.com
(usually outdated, but check often for updates)

See you there!