Jim Glatfelter graduated from backyard cooking to barbecue competitor at the first Pennsylvania State Championship BBQ Cook-Off at New Holland Summer Fest.

Naturally, Glatfelter will again be among the 72 barbecue teams competing at the popular event, to be held Aug. 26-27 at the New Holland Community Memorial Park.

This marks the 12th year for the New Holland competition — sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society —not to mention Glatfelter's 12th year as a competitor.  

"Competing against the best of the best is a good feeling, whether you win or lose," he said.

The Lancaster resident competed solo in his first eight years at the event, but now partners with Steve Apple of Millersville under the name of Pequea Pullers.

Recently retired from the printing industry, Glatfelter likes having time to practice his technique and perfect the team's rubs and sauces, especially for its award-winning ribs and chicken.

He credits his friend Paul Hess — co-owner of Hess's Barbecue Catering, who competes with his wife Brenda as PA Midnite Smokers — for inspiring him to become an avid barbecue cook. 

Hess, from Willow Street, has been a Summer Fest committee member, KCBS judge, vendor and competitor. He has won the Pennsylvania State Championship five years in a row, and the Pennsylvania Barbecue Champion Cup four years straight. 

"Summer Fest is a popular competition and we reach our 72-team limit by April each year, and always have a waiting list for available space," Hess said.

He said that this year, teams are coming from seven states and Canada. 

Sporting names such as Pigheaded, Swine Done Fine, Polka Pigs, Pig Pen, Hog Tails, Porkers in Paradise, Off the Hoof and Smoken Dudes, these barbecue aficionados are masters at cooking over charcoal and wood.

Officials from KCBS oversee the event to ensure competitors and judges follow the rules. Judges award points for appearance, tenderness and taste. For every competitor, there is a judge.   

The categories for the cook-off include: chicken, pork shoulder or pork butt, pork ribs, beef brisket, sausage, Chefs Choice and whole hog. All cooking is done over wood or charcoal and no propane or electric grills are permitted. 

"Serious competitors can easily spend $500 to compete after paying $225 for the entry fee, travel, meats, sauces, cooking needs, etc.," Hess said.

The grand champion will receive a trophy and $1,000, and reserve grand champion takes home a trophy and $500. Each category winner has the opportunity to earn cash prizes, trophies, pins and ribbons.

The two-day event also includes the "Kids Q" barbecue competition, children's activities, musical entertainment and food vendors.

Admission is $1, and all proceeds will benefit Liberty Fire Company and New Holland Community Memorial Park. The park is located at 436 E. Jackson St., New Holland.

For a schedule of events, visit nhsummerfest.org.