Downtown Tomahawk rib contest to benefit non-profits
The Tomahawk Lions Club has made giving back never taste so good.
For the sixth year in a row, a portion of downtown Tomahawk will be closed to traffic Saturday, Aug. 10 as 10 teams compete for the title of barons of bones and sultans of sauce during the Tomahawk Lions Club’s annual Thrilla on the Grilla barbecue rib contest. All proceeds from the finger-licking afternoon affair that will once again feature a host of entertainment for the entire family is going to support local charities.
Event organizers say the Thrilla on the Grilla is truly a recipe for success, as several local businesses and organizations get to showcase their rib-grilling prowess, ticket holders get the opportunity to sample some of the best ribs at a very reasonable price and 100 percent of proceeds from the day go back toward helping a good cause.
This year’s Thrilla on the Grilla features several previous champions as well as a few newcomers to the field that will compete to stake claim to the title of grill master and best barbecue pork ribs around. Teams range from some of the community’s biggest employers like Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) and Harley-Davidson to smaller operations like Marty’s “Mucho Grande Ribs” and the Phatt Boyz team of “Grill on the Go” that will showcase their secret rib recipes during the contest.
Along with a rib sampling from each contestant, ticketholders are also treated to a side fixing prepared by each of the teams. Beer and refreshments are available throughout the day and the Lions will host a corn roast as part of the event.
Larry Raymond, inventor of Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Sauce, will be among a group of judges compiled to select the winner for the best ribs. Ticketholders will also have the opportunity to vote for their most favorite ribs, as a People’s Choice will also be awarded at the conclusion of the contest.
The Lions have been able to raise tens of thousands of dollars for community organizations since starting the Thrilla five years ago. Organizer and Lions member Tom Kelley notes the event has been such a success because of its broad appeal that includes children’s activities, a large raffle, karaoke contest and much more. He added many of the thousands who pack downtown Tomahawk for the contest each year don’t even have tickets but instead come for the good times.
“Good eats and good times while helping support a good cause,” Kelley said in describing the contest as a big community picnic.
The Lions Club suggests those planning to attend this year’s Thrilla on the Grilla get their tickets in advance as last year, as in year’s past, the contest did sell out. The event is open to the public at no cost. Thrilla on the Grilla tickets are $13 apiece and provide a sample of each team’s ribs as well as side fixings. The event runs from noon to 5 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased at participating businesses as well as at the Tomahawk Regional Chamber of Commerce at 715-453-5334. Any remaining tickets will be available at the Thrilla on the day of the contest.
The Tomahawk Lions invite everyone to stop by downtown Tomahawk Saturday, Aug. 10 to have some good eats, take part in a good time and help carry on what has become a proven recipe for success.