The annual June Cook Off, June 16-17, had 30 paid entries. The event spotlights include a Junior Pitmasters cook off for children 7-12 years old (juniors) and 13-17 years old (senior division). Eligible contestants in this event are members of the Junior Pitmasters Association and children of teams entered in the June Cook-Off who meet the same age criteria as JPA members. It is not a requirement to be a member of the JPA to participate.
The following individuals placed in the top 10: First place Blake Schendel (Team Alley Cats), second place Michael Triola (Team All Ways Smoking), third place Dwain Garber (Team Mid Coast Cookers), fourth place Carlos Garza (Team Sill Smoking), fifth place Billy Honea (Team Brisket Cases 2), sixth place Zach Smith (Team Meat Locker Misfits), seventh place Jason Sagmiller (Team Race Crew Barbecue), eighth place Louie Liendo (Team Toro Loco), ninth place Wallace Garner (Team Gulf Moon Barbecue), and tenth place Tony Longoria (Team Los 239 Grillers).
Proceeds from the Annual Columbus June Cook Off benefits the local FFA Chapter and is overseen by the Columbus FFA Alumni. Funds are used for scholarships, trips and leadership events that enhance student experiences throughout each school year.