The Town of Cutler Bay’s third annual “Rib Ticklers Ball” returns on Saturday, Nov. 8. As before, local chefs will fire up their barbecues to compete for the title of Grand Champion as well as other awards. The event takes place from 2 to 7 p.m. at Cutler Ridge Park, 10100 SW 200 St.
Fred Bobson of the Parks and Recreation Department, who has been coordinating this event in previous years, said he is looking forward to their third year.
“It’s a lot of fun for the whole family,” Bobson said. “We have stuff for children as well as adults. It’s very good barbecue. They’re competing for cash prizes and a lot of them will be vending, so there’ll be food.”
Bobson said that resident grill masters like the Backyard Gladiators and the BBQ Grillers will be back as well as other local culinary artists, but he stresses that the event is open to anyone who wants to compete. Previous years’ winners have come from a variety of other cities besides Cutler Bay. Bobson said that interest is increasing each year and that the quality is not limited to a few regions nationally.
“Everything’s growing and we’re pleased with that,” Bobson said. “We just want to show the rest of the country that you don’t have to come from Kansas City or Georgia or Texas to do good barbecue. We have some great barbecue here in South Florida.”
Cash prizes and trophies will be awarded by a panel of judges for first, second and third place in each of the four categories — brisket, chicken, pulled pork, and pork ribs. A Grand Champion will be crowned, selected from those entries that compete in all four categories.
The family-oriented event also will feature a bounce house and slide for the youngsters and there will be a tribute to veterans. Musical entertainment will be provided by local popular country western band the Rodeo Clowns. There is no charge to attend, but food and beverages will be available for sale. Bobson said there may be some limited freebies, too.
“Some generous competitors may give out samples of their smoked and barbecued goodies, on a first-come, first-served basis,” Bobson said. “We are also proud to have Mercedes Benz of Cutler Bay as the presenting sponsor of this event for the third year in a row.”
For information on the event or to register to compete contact Fred Bobson at 305-238-4166.
