CLAY COUNTY – Bryce Bagley thought the Wheeler’s BBQ Ribs and Wings Cookoff at his parents’ ranch would draw close friends and family. 

Organizer Jason Wheeler knew he’d get 30 of his close barbecue teams to attend the Healing Hearts Project fundraiser on Saturday, Nov. 15. 

Both wildly underestimated the generosity of the community or the love of barbecue, because more than 300 people gobbled up more than 400 dinners to help the organization dedicated to helping those like Bagley affected by congenital heart defects. 

“For the number of people that actually showed up from the community, and you know, even outside of Clay County, that came in to support the First Annual Rib and Wing Cook Off, and the number of dinners we had planned for, it was a big success,” Wheeler said. “It was overwhelming for us.” 

Wheeler said the goal was to raise $5,000. Like their attendance expectation, he missed badly. They wound up sending $11,358 to the Healing Hearts Foundation. 

27 teams competed for Best in Ribs. The panel of judges included Sheriff Michelle Cook, County Commission Chair Betsy Condon and Barbecue Restaurateur Gary Park. Rum Runners BBQ won first place and $500, while BRGY BBQ was voted as the People’s Choice winner. 

“I can’t believe this many people came out here,” Bagley said. “It makes me want to fight a little harder.” 

Wheeler said he already has plans for another BBQ competition next year. 

“We put this on for the Healing Hearts Project, and everyone was amazing,” he said. “We want to thank all the teams that came out and showed support, as well as the media. A lot of good friends came out and helped. It was a great turnout. I don’t know how we can match it next year because this one was off the charts.”