Mauldin’s 2014 BBQ Cook-off was a HUGE success. Thank you to each of our Cookers, Judges, table captains, novice table teacher (Mike Horne), and event coordinators for making this happen. The City of Mauldin does this to provide a low cost, family fun day to the residents of Mauldin. We are thankful that one of our own judges, Gabe Hunter is on the City Council of Mauldin and initiated this event 4 years ago. Beautiful weather, wonderful competition! Congratulations to each of the cooking teams who made the competition just that a “close competition”. When all was said and done, the point spread between 23 teams from beginning to end was less than 2 points. AMAZING BBQ FROM ALL!
Top 3 award winners in BUTTS:
1. Palmetto Smoke - Kevin Glenn
2. Boar’s Nest BBQ - Doug Mills
3. Off the Grill BBQ – Seth Vaughn

The top 3 award winners in RIBS:
1. Firetower BBQ - Jay Thom
2. Boar’s Nest BBQ - Doug Mills
3. Off the Grill BBQ - Seth Vaughn
We cannot forget the Friday night Anything Butt Competition. There was a tie for first place for this category made by the local celebrity judges.
Tied for this honor: Palmetto Smoke - Kevin Glenn as well as Southern Smoke BBQ - Clint Wittner.

CONGRATULATIONS to Judges who advanced in the judging hierarchy of SCBA. Eddie Leach advanced from Novice Judge to Certified Judge and received his apron. Also advancing from Certified Judge to Senior Judge were Jason Doss, Jim Grove, and Michelle Grove who received their Senior Hats.

My wife, Judi and I really enjoyed visiting and talking with each of the cookers on an individual basis. Thank you to City of Mauldin who along with Waffle House provided breakfast: Waffles, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, orange juice and hot coffee on Saturday AM. This was a wonderful treat for both cookers and judges. In addition, The City of Mauldin presented each of the Cookers with Galvanized Beverage Tin that was engraved with their BBQ team name on it. They did not forget the judges either. Providing them with insulated Tumblers with straws and also cozies.
I count it a privilege to be the Marshal for this event. Bill Walsh served as Asst. Marshal & was attentive to details and a great asset. Don Adkins was there to facilitate as well. It was wonderful to see the “seasoned” cookers assisting the new cookers with equipment and necessities. We feel so blessed to a part of this group. A successful event like this does not just “happen”. It takes a dedicated team working diligently together to make it happen. From the City of Mauldin, Gabe, George, Jennifer, and Mary Jane making this an annual opportunity for the residents. The cookers providing their expert cooking skills, and the judges providing savory taste buds, and HUNDREDS of volunteers it all came together as planned. Hope to see you again next year at the 5th Annual Mauldin BBQ Cook-Off and Family Fun Day! THANK YOU ALL of doing what you do so well. Cookin’ Smokin’, Tastin’, & Judgin’! There is no doubt about it… SOUTH CAROLINA IS THE BBQ STATE!
Tony Lindsey, Marshal ¬- and Bill Walsh, Asst. Marshal