General Information

Archaeological evidence indicates that man began controlling fire 1.8 million years ago. Since that time, man has sought bigger and better ways to use fire to his advantage, including the cooking of meat. Sometime in the 20th century, a group of men were drinking beer and bragging about their barbecue prowess. And the barbecue contest was born.

In 2005, a group of people with a combined total of over 100 years of barbecue experience came together as the 25 to 1 Fund - a non-profit organization dedicated to raising money for charity through the spirit of "Food, Fun and Philanthropy". Our goal is to become one of the premier culinary events in the country while doing good for others. In 2005, the 25 to 1 Fund held the first Great American Barbecue Contest at the Woodlands Racetrack in Kansas City, KS. That first contest attracted over 180 teams for the invitational and open contests. By 2008, the number of teams had grown to well over 200 and continues to grow every year. We pride ourselves in being a truly family-oriented event.

In our first five years, the 25 to 1 Fund, through The Great American Barbecue, has donated over $100,000 to a number of worthy local and national charities. Oversight for charitable giving is provided by the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation. Our Board of Directors and General Committee include people with a passion for the carnivorous arts and for helping others less fortunate than ourselves.

Oh, yes, we also have a great time doing it! We welcome like-minded people to join our cause! For further information about how you can get involved, email us at guest.services@thinkbbq.com.