Smithfield has announced that Darren and Sherry Warth of Iowa’s Smokey D’s BBQ took home the Reserve Grand Champion title at the 2018 Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational Barbecue competition this past weekend in Lynchburg, Tenn. In addition to taking home one of the top overall wins, the husband and wife team also placed first in the Pork Ribs category cooking with Smithfield Prime Fresh Pork, receiving a perfect 180 score and besting more than 100 teams. This is the second major win for Iowa’s Smokey D’s BBQ this year, as they also took home the top prize at the 39^th American Royal World Series of Barbecue in September.

“2018 keeps getting better and better – we’re so honored to take home this win at The Jack when competing against the best pitmasters in the world at one of the most prestigious competitions,” said Darren Warth. “To win competitions, you need a great team and great, high-quality meat, and that’s why we consistently cook with Smithfield Fresh Pork. Whether we’re on or off the competition circuit, we can trust that we’re always getting the best quality and freshest product you can find.”

As the official Pork and Ribs sponsor of the 2018 Jack Daniel’s Invitational, Smithfield also congratulates several Championship pitmasters, BBQ Alliance, and Committed Cooks teams on their strong performances, including Brad Leighninger of Gettin’ Basted for placing first in the Pork category and seventh Overall, Tim Scheer of Shake 'n Bake BBQ for placing fourth Overall and ninth in Pork, and Blane Hunter of Porky Butts BBQ for placing ninth Overall.

“Award-winning pitmasters like Darren and Sherry Warth know that quality and consistency are what wins Championships – and they know that Smithfield brings that quality and consistency to every package,” said Emily Detwiler, director of fresh pork marketing for Smithfield Foods. “We thank all of our BBQ Alliance and Committed Cooks teams for continuing to represent us among some of the most prestigious and distinguished events in the sport of barbecue, and look forward to continue serving them in the 2019 competition season!”

For the full list of winners from the 2018 Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational Barbecue competition, visit www.kcbs.us. For more information and to apply for the 2019 Smokin’ With Smithfield Grant and Committed Cooks programs, please visit www.SmokinWithSmithfield.com.

Source: Smithfield Foods