Wow—What a Day at Smokin’ on Blackshear!
The GBA was proud to be part of the Smokin’ on Blackshear BBQ & Balloon Festival at the stunning Georgia Veterans State Park. This year, we had the unique opportunity to run two contests in one, and what a turnout it was!
24 Pro Teams and 10 IAW (In Association With) Teams brought the heat, heart, and flavor. With 9 turn-in windows and 33 hardworking judges, and an outstanding GBA Rep Team that included the Warren’s Warren Phelps And Warren Abrams, and Brian Bond along with assistance Jerry and Ewa Belcastro, we pulled off an incredible day of BBQ magic.
Huge thanks to Linda Hawkins and her amazing organizing team—your hospitality and effort made everything run like clockwork. We’re so grateful for your dedication!
This wasn’t just about the competition—it was about community and camaraderie. Everyone had a blast, and the spirit of BBQ family was strong.
Pro Division Finals
Grand Champion: Rescue Smokers
Reserve Champion: Leron’s BBQ
Loin Results: 1st Place-Rescue Smokers, 2nd Place-Hot Ash Q, 3rd Place Hog Harris
Pork Results: 1st Place-Leron’s BBQ Competition and Catering, 2nd Place-Big Daddy’s BBQ Pit, 3rd Place-Big Butts BBQ
Ribs Results: 1st Place-The Look and the Cook, 2nd Place-Bite My Butt BBQ, 3rd Place-Rescue Smokers
IAW Division Results
Best of Blackshear (IAW Overall Winner): Meat Show
Loin Results: 1st Place Deez Butts, 2nd Place Smokin Aces, 3rd Place Dad Bod Grillin’ Squad
Pork Results: 1st Place-Meat Show, 2nd Midnight Smokin Crew, 3rd Place-Smokin’ Aces
Ribs Results: 1st Meat Show, 2nd Place Midnight Smokin’ Crew, 3rd Deez Butts
THANK YOU TO our 2025 Georgia BBQ Association TEAM of the YEAR Sponsors – A BETTER BUILT FENCE CO. & DEXTER MEAT CO.
.