WASHINGTON — Prize money, reputation and bragging rights are on the line for pitmasters preparing for a new challenge as the 2017 American Royal World Series of Barbecue® introduces the Turkey Smoke auxiliary competition. The Turkey Smoke, presented by National Turkey Federation in partnership with the American Royal Association, marks the first time turkey will be included in the world-famous event.
With grilling tongs in the skilled hands of BBQ's best, turkey will please pitmasters and BBQ buffs alike at the upcoming 38th annual signature event featuring the Turkey Smoke on Sunday, September 3. Meaty turkey drumsticks, pulled turkey, turkey tenderloin, and savory turkey breast are set to rub, marinate, and infuse the competition for technique, flavor and winning results. Registration is now underway and coincides with June is Turkey Lovers' Month®, a celebration of turkey's versatility in smoking and grilling.
"The Turkey Smoke at the World Series of Barbecue is an opportunity to share the enjoyment of eating turkey with thousands attending one of the world's premiere barbecue competitions," said Carl Wittenburg, Chairman of National Turkey Federation. "We are honored to be partnering with the American Royal and sponsoring turkey's first appearance with the Turkey Smoke."
The 2017 World Series of Barbecue draws more than 50,000 attendees. This year's competition will be held August 31 – September 3 at the Kansas Speedway with the Turkey Smoke competition September 3. The Labor Day weekend event is not only home to hundreds of elite barbecue teams competing for the grand prize, but also a public festival including live music, local food, kids activities and a vendor fair.
"The American Royal is thrilled to partner with the National Turkey Federation for the 2017 World Series of Barbecue," said Emily Park, manager World Series of Barbecue. "For the first time in 38 years, we will bring turkey to the competition with this auxiliary protein round. The addition of the Turkey Smoke will be a great opportunity for our teams to showcase even more of their BBQ skills and techniques."
For turkey grilling tips, recipes and more information about NTF, visit ServeTurkey.org. More information about the Turkey Smoke and the World Series of Barbecue can be found at AmericanRoyal.com.
About National Turkey Federation
National Turkey Federation is the national advocate raising awareness for its members' products, while strengthening their ability to profitably and safely deliver wholesome, high-quality, and nutritious food to consumers worldwide.
About American Royal Association
The American Royal is a non-profit organization based in Kansas City since 1899. We provide opportunities for youth and adults from around the country to compete in our Livestock Show, ProRodeo, and Horse Shows. Many people know us for our World Series of Barbecue®, which is actually our largest fundraiser. Events including the barbecue allow us to give over $1 million annually for youth scholarships and support agriculture education programs.
The World Series of Barbecue®, the largest barbecue competition in the world, will be hosted over Labor Day weekend at the Kansas Speedway. In its 38th year, the competition will bring together over 500 chefs, pitmasters and amateur teams to compete in Open Meats, Open Sides, Invitational and Kids Que Competitions. Additionally the World Series of Barbecue will host the Cowtown Family Fun Fest, Barbecue Hall of Fame activities, private parties and endless amount of entertainment over the four day festival event!
Source: National Turkey Federation