Smokin’ Steers advance to state, finish second in regional competition

The downtown square was the site as Graham High School hosted the first regional cookoff of the Texas HS BBQ season. The Graham Smokin’ Steers, Lipan Smoke Signals, Rio Vista Power Chefs, Muenster FFA Smokin’ Hornets and the Pollock Barrel Boys competed in five categories and earned trips to the state competition.

The Smokin’ Steers finished second overall after first-place finishes in dessert and brisket. They took second place in beans, third place in chicken and fifth in ribs. Lucio Arvizu prepared the dessert and beans, Diego Arvizu prepared ribs and the brisket was prepared by Landon Locker.

The Power Chefs overcame adversity to finish the day as Grand Champions of the event, the first held in Graham. Smokin’ Steers coach Brendan Locker helped coach the team to a victory after one member was taken to the hospital to get looked at after breathing problems. She was released and back in time for the award ceremony.

For the rest of the story, see the Nov. 25 edition of The Graham Leader.