By Jed Buelow
Tomahawk Leader co-editor, Sports/Nature Editor
Time is running out to get in on some of the best grilled barbeque ribs around as the Tomahawk Lions will host the 12th annual Thrilla on the Grilla rib contest this Saturday, Aug. 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Tickets are limited to the first 650. Event organizers note that while some might still be available on the day of the event, typically the rib contest is a sell out with all proceeds going to support local non-profit community organizations. Ticketholders get to sample 10 ribs from the different pro-griller teams taking part as well as get to sample a tasty side fixing made by each team. Cost per ticket is $15.
This year’s Thrilla will once again feature past champions as well as some secret new teams who will look to take the titl of baron of bones and sultan of sauce. Ticketholders will get the opportunity to cast a vote for People’s Choice for best ribs and a group of special judges will select the Judge’s Choice award for ribs as well as select the best Side Dish.
Some of the returning award-winning teams who will compete this year include Harley-Davidson – Smockin’ Hogs, PCA – Best Meat on the Street, Great Lakes Foods – Hillbilly BBQ Team, Geiss Meat – Rib Ticklers and a team from River Valley Bank. Some of the newcomers who will look to tantalize tastebuds with their secret rubs and sauce include Stoney Acre Farms – T-bone and Big Saucy, a Tomahawk Lions team and another mystery team that will serve up their secret recipe on the day of the event.
Tomahawk Lions Club member Kevin Koth stressed those planning to attend should get their tickets in advance as the past couple years the Thrilla has been a sell out. He noted the rib contest is one of the biggest fund raisers of the year for the club and all proceeds from the event go to support the many local good causes the Lions support throughout the year.
“Great food and camaraderie, plus where else can you spend $15 and enjoy an entire afternoon of entertainment?,” Koth stated. “It really is just a great time. If you haven’t been, you really need to stop down and give it a try.”
Along with all the food and side fixings, the Lions will be serving beverages and the soothing sounds of Brian McLaughlin and his guitar will entertain throughout the afternoon.
Even those without tickets are invited to attend and enjoy all the activities taking place for free downtown.
Advance tickets can be purchased at participating businesses as well as Trig’s, Great Lakes Foods, Tomahawk Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Tomahawk Leader office and from PCA and Lions members. Any remaining tickets will be sold on-site on the morning of the rib contest.
In the event of bad weather, the contest will be moved inside the ice arena at SARA Park on West Somo Avenue.
To reserve tickets in advance, contact Koth at 715-612-8124. For more information on the Thrilla and other events sponsored by the club, visit the Tomahawk Lions Facebook page.