VSU Adds BBQ to Annual Chili Cook-off

VALDOSTA - Valdosta State University will host the 2009 BBQ and Chili Cook-off on Saturday, Nov. 7, in Drexel Park on the Williams Street side near Bazemore-Hyder Stadium. Teams may set up as early as 5 a.m. and judging begins at noon, prior to the 2 p.m. Blazer football game against Edward Waters.

Teams are invited to decorate their booths, wear costumes and test their chili-making and barbecuing skills during the spirited competition. Participants are required to make two gallons of chili and/or two Boston butts for the competition. Winners for best-tasting chili and best barbecue will take home $300 for first place, $200 for second place and $100 for third place. Team tents will also be judged for the best overall booth presentation. After the judging, event organizers will sell cups for the public to sample teams’ chili and barbecue. The public will also be able to purchase raffle tickets that day for a chance to win a variety of prizes.

The deadline to register for the event - sponsored by Talk 92.1 and Sunset Farms - is Monday, Nov. 2. Participants must pay a $50 fee to enter the competition. VSU faculty, staff and students may register for the discounted rate of $25. A $20 late fee will be charged to teams who register after the Nov. 2 deadline.

For more information or to enter, visit www.valdosta.edu/specialevents, e-mail specialevents@valdosta.edu, or call (229) 333-7446.