The Invisible Wounds Project presents the 2025 Backyard Barbecue Showdown and People’s Choice Contest!

When: Saturday, September 27, 2025

Where: Running Aces Casino, Hotel & Racetrack

15201 Running Aces Blvd, Columbus, MN

What: KCBS Sanctioned Backyard BBQ Chicken and Ribs event and People's Choice Ribs and Sides. This contest will run in conjunction with the Invisible Wounds Project Cruise "IN" For Heroes Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show, and the Freedom Fest concert featuring national country star Clay Walker. The car show and parking lot music will take place during the BBQ contest, and the Clay Walker concert happens in the evening. Come show off your BBQ skills while helping us raise money for a great cause. The Invisible Wounds Project provides support to current and former military, police, fire, EMS, frontline medical staff, corrections, 911 dispatch and their immediate families related to mental health, PTSD, and suicide issues. Help us give back to those who give the most.

Cost: $300 per team

All proceeds from this event will go directly to the Invisible Wounds Project

$4,500 IN PRIZE MONEY IS UP FOR GRABS!

$3,050 for KCBS Ribs and Chicken (1st thru 10th place in each category plus 1st thru 5th overall)

$875 for People's Choice Ribs (1st thru 5th place)

$575 for People's Choice Side (1st thru 5th place)

• A 10’x20’ parking lot space is provided for each team. If more space is needed, please

email randerson3472@gmail.com.

• Teams supply their own ribs, chicken for KCBS judging. Find KSBS rules and tips HERE.

• 8 to 12 racks of ribs will be provided for each team to cook and serve for

People’s Choice. If your team chooses to cook additional racks of ribs, those must be

provided on your own.

• There will be no water or electricity on site.