Last weekend it was finally time. Make or break.

In the last match of this season, the Championship of Waasland, in Sint Niklaas, there was a gathering. About 25 teams, with even 2 teams from Estonia, competed for a new title.

For us and some other teams this match was more special, because we were playing for a title, that of a Category or the Belgian title.

Spoiler on Saturday: rain showers and strong wind

Luckily the weather on Sunday was quite ok.

But anyway, to get straight to the point: this was our worst match so far.

We were sharp and focused, and the temperature of the smoker was very stable.

But the meat was not what we normally had and we also saw this in the points.

Chicken : 14

Ribs :6

Pork : 22

Brisket : 14

Overall result ; 14

And so it is exciting, because the other teams that also have a chance of winning the title, scored slightly better than us.

The question now is whether enough points have been collected to win the title?

At this moment the final ranking has not yet been communicated so we are waiting in suspense.

Whatever the outcome, what an experience this has been!

As a rookie team, we were immediately allowed to compete at the top of the competition, with many calls and walks and also a Reserved Grand Champion.

It took blood, sweat and tears, but it was all worth it.

Of course many thanks to all sponsors: Big Green Egg, Carmans / Atelier Francois and Red Bull

Finally, I would like to say a few words to Tom and Dorien from Southern Dutch BBQ

Tom and Dorien announced on their FB page late Sunday evening that they are retiring from BBQ competition. In recent years they have dominated the European competition and have always been the team to beat. Many have tried and few have succeeded.

But Tom and Dorien are also the reason for our good results.

I was one of the lucky ones who could attend their masterclass, which was an absolute must to be able to participate in this competition.

They shared their years of accumulated knowledge, and I could always turn to them afterwards on the field.

Tom and Dorien are wonderful people, who we will miss very much, as opponents, as mentors, as support, as added value in the scene.

Both they and we will be going to The Jack on October 14/15, and we will wave them goodbye there.

I don't know how yet, but we'll make something beautiful out of it.

Thank you Tom and Dorien!

xxx