The Midwest Barbecue Association (MWBA) hosts several events throughout the year, including Barbecue on the Bricks in downtown Kearney.
Barbecue on the Bricks returned after a two-year COVID break.
There were 10 teams competing for the top spot, and to keep things fair, they all smoked the same two types of meat.
“Today’s menu is baby back ribs and we’ll also be serving up pork shoulder, also known as Boston butt, which is commonly used in pulled pork," said contestant Craig Beshek.
The goal of the event was to raise money for the Kearney Eagles Club, a local nonprofit.
“They might help families. They might buy playground equipment. They might help with first responders, buying some of their emergency equipment. It’s all based on an as-needed basis. The eagles are very supportive as far as their communities," stated Kevin Bremer, MWBA president and event coordinator.
One club member said a few years ago they raised over $15,000 for a child fighting cancer. This year, organizers said they sold about 400 tickets and hoped to raise at least $5,000.
Organizers told NTV News all of the money raised Saturday goes directly back to helping those in need. The Eagles Club did not keep a dime.