Events like BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark, held June 21 in Des Moines, show the strength of communities, says Doug Gruver, Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) board member and two-time event volunteer.
“Giving back is at the heart of what we do as pork producers,” Gruver says. “Whether it’s raising food or raising funds, we’re proud to serve Iowans beyond the farm. This event is also a great opportunity to showcase the high-quality product we raise in Iowa and the incredible BBQ talent and passion of the teams who compete.”
Hundreds of Iowans gathered at Principal Park for the third annual event, raising more than $20,000 to support food banks across the state. IPPA partners with the Iowa Cubs and Fareway Stores to host the competition.
Two dozen backyard barbecue teams competed for $12,000 in prize money across three pork categories: loin, ribs, and butt.
Attendees were able to sample pork provided by Iowa Machine Shed, the Ames and Beaverdale Fareway Meat Markets, Story County Pork Producers and local BBQ enthusiast Joe Osbrink.
Backroad BBQ of Ames earned the title of grand champion, while Brown Dog BBQ from Stuart was named reserve grand champion. Slap Your Bacon BBQ from Ankeny placed third overall and won the People’s Choice Award, securing $1,000 in prize money and directing a $1,000 donation to the North Polk Comet Cupboard food pantry in Polk City.
“This donation was such a blessing and came at a time of real need,” said Dixie Bequeaith of the North Polk Comet Cupboard. “Food insecurity doesn’t take a summer break, especially for families with kids out of school. Running a pantry often means wondering how we’ll keep the shelves stocked, but time and again, generous people and businesses step up. We’re incredibly grateful for this support from the winning team, and it will go a long way in helping our community.”
Click here to view full contest results.
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