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By Scott Mims | Community Columnist

The second annual Central Alabama BBQ Fest was held on Sept. 28 and featured BBQ masters from all around to compete to be the best. The second Central Alabama BBQ Fest doubled in size from the inaugural event held a year ago.

McCalla’s ‘Holy Smokin!!!’ was crowned the Grand Champion of the fest, and Norala BBQ of Trinity was the Reserve Grand Champion. Smoke Wagon BBQ in nearby Marbury was chosen as the People’s Choice Award recipient.

This year’s Fest, which was held Sept. 28 at the Chilton County Airport, was packed with about 2,000 attendees along with vendors, classic cars, musical performances from Johnny Cash cover band Cash Back and other performers, and 18 competing barbecue teams.

“I really enjoyed seeing everyone out and about just having a good time,” Wallace said. “I’m looking forward to seeing this event grow as we try to spread a little joy around our community.”

Wallace also announced the rankings for this year’s competition, which was sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society:

Grand Champion — Holy Smokin!!! (led by Saige Raffaniello of McCalla, Ala.)

 

Reserve Grand Champion — Norala BBQ team (led by AJ Johnson of Trinity, Ala.)

 

People’s Choice Award Winner — Smoke Wagon BBQ (led by Steven Reep of Marbury, Ala.)

 

Chicken category rankings:

First place — Norala BBQ team

Second place — Smokey Bees BBQ (led by Hunt Blackledge of Meridian, Miss.)

Third place — Holy Smokin!!!

(Note: Smokey Bees and Norala both scored a perfect 180)

 

Ribs category rankings:

First place — Holy Smokin!!!

Second place — LWS Smokin Aces (led by Allan Turner of Alabaster, Ala.)

Third place — Norala BBQ team