Grill Off is coming soon...History of the All Jamaica Grill Off

When the heat of summer hits, there is no better way to relax than to lounge in the backyard, surrounded by the tantalising aroma of sizzling meats, fresh herbs and spices and the smokiness of pimento wood. As he took a sip of his ice-cold beverage, All Jamaica Grill Off pioneer Craig Powell thought, "everyone should have a moment just like this!" Craig immediately began to put together an event that would give everyone the opportunity to indulge in mouth-watering barbecue, with all the amenities of a 'backyard lyme' with family and friends.

The first All Jamaica Grill Off was held in June 2007 on the lawns of the then American International School. With a total of 10 teams competing, patrons filled the grounds sampling scrumptious tidbits of chicken, beef and pork marinated in herbs and spices and slathered with full-bodied sauces, while enjoying the activities that this unique family event had to offer. Prizes were awarded in the categories of chicken, beef, pork and sauce, along with the crowd favourite and best booth. Team Country Boyz walked away with the grand prize after wooing the judges, and of course the crowd, with such favourites as grilled game bird on sugar-cane skewers.

Teams featured this year include:

Returning Teams

The Sheriff BBQ Team, Irie Isle Grillers, Grill Gurus, Nash Grillers, Western Grillers, Firewater Grillers and Walkers Wood.

New Teams

DGS Grillers, Jamaican Yaad Style, HomeChefs, BBQ Nation, Team Heart Academy and Team Grace.

Sponsors this year are: Appleton Estate, The Gleaner Company, Jamaica Tourist Board, Intelligent Multimedia, Ranger Security, Walkerswood, Rainforest Seafood, The Courtleigh Hotel, Iprint Digital, Skkan Media, Reggae Jammin', Wealth Magazine, Lascelles Wines and Spirits and Dealz Manufacturing and Distributors.

Last year's winning team was HogAholics, comprising team leader Christopher Hamilton, Zein Nakash, Chris Nakash, Dale Delisser and Dr Richard Harrison. This year's event will be held on June 12 at Hope Gardens, St Andrew.