Organizers of the annual BBQ competition Smoke on the Water (SOTW) have exciting news to announce – due to a generous donor, entry fees are now discounted to only $50 per team for the 2018 competition.
The annual event, which draws the best BBQ pitmasters from across the state and even more people to enjoy the atmosphere and taste some of the best BBQ, will be held at Old Settlers Park in Lynnville Aug. 24-25. SOTW is an IBS sanctioned event with points up for grabs that, according to organizers, can help competitors in the Team of the Year points race.
Since 2013, SOTW has challenged BBQ enthusiasts to prepare their best meat and side dishes in a competition that also serves as a community fundraiser. This year, all proceeds will go to Lynnville resident Bryce Wehrle, who is fighting Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Wehrle has been a past competitor and winner at SOTW, and has helped behind the scenes to make it a huge success.
This year, a maximum of 30 teams will battle it out to prepare their best in four meat categories, as well as a side dish category. Up for grabs this year in prize money is $3,000. With the reduced entry fee announcement, spots will fill up fast, and the deadline to sign up is July 15. Competitors who have previously signed up will receive a $75 reimbursement check the day of the event. Organizers note, “The person who donated the funds really wants to pack Old Setts with teams and people the day of the event.” Anyone interested in signing up can view the SOTW entry form on their Facebook page, SMOKE on the Water, or contact Jeff Arment at jeffarment@icloud.com.
New this year is a KidsQ, which will feature up-and-coming pitmasters. A total of 10 teams will each grill hamburgers with their special spice or secret in a friendly competition for the perfect, tastiest hamburger. Grills, charcoal, and hamburgers will be provided.
Organizers are currently looking to add to the growing list of great raffle items. If anyone wants to donate, they are encouraged to leave a Facebook message. Thanks to another generous donation from Ron Montgomery of Tidy Turf, a Green Mountain Grill Daniel Boone WiFi model will be raffled. Tickets are $5 each or five for $20 and can be purchased at Smokin J’s Kitchen in Lynnville, Tidy Turf in Grinnell, or from any SOTW Committee member.
