Smokin' Saddles BBQ Competition

03/31/2026

We are saddened to hear of the passing of former Backyard BBQ competitor William “Billy” Eugene Hixon. Billy was known for his love of BBQ, his willingness to help others, and the lasting impact he made on those around him. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends.

William Billy Eugene Hixon, 46, passed away on March 25, 2026, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas. He was born on March 6, 1980, in Dodge City, Kansas, to Tony Hixon and Sherry Harms. Billy was a lifelong resident of Dodge City and dedicated 22 years of his life

03/13/2026

Registration is now open for the 2026 Smokin’ Saddles BBQ Contest in Dodge City.

This year, our Pro competition will be held as a one-day event on Saturday, July 25.

We also want to make our Pro teams aware that Backyard teams are invited to participate in Open Format if they choose. Backyard registration is not open yet, but it is expected to open next week. Any team with questions and to register may email [email protected] or go online to https://business.dodgechamber.com/events/details/smokin-saddles-pro-bbq-3174

We appreciate the continued support of our longtime teams and look forward to welcoming competitors back to Dodge City for another great year of Smokin’ Saddles.

07/28/2025

07/28/2025

07/28/2025

07/28/2025

The Gateway Drum Smokers are dialed in and the meat is on here at the Smokin' Saddles BBQ Competition day 2! Yesterday we picked up an 8th place brisket call. Let's hope today is better yet!

07/28/2025

07/28/2025

The streak of 13th place chicken is over 🥳🙌🏼

Spent the weekend in Dodge city at BBQ Contest. Love the event and location 🤘🏼

We felt like we turned in 4 solid boxes both days, but got some mixed results.
Day 1:
13th chicken
14th ribs
10th pork
4th brisket

Day 2:
1st chicken with a 180🤩
17th ribs 🤷🏻‍♂️
6th pork
11th brisket

10th overall

Congrats for day 1 GC and for RGC and for day 2 GC and for RGC.

Shoutout to our sponsors and supporters
Heath Riles BBQ
Clark Crew BBQ
The Good Charcoal Company
Outlaw BBQ Smokers
Bushmaster BBQ
Local Yokels BBQ
Prairie Fresh

07/28/2025

07/22/2025

UPDATED -
Hello Everyone - this is the BACKYARD BBQ Team list as it stands this morning (7/22). Also, your welcome email with event details will be sent out today. Please check your emails for that information.

To register please go to - https://www.dodgecitydays.org/bbq-events

Any questions, please email [email protected]

07/22/2025

UPDATED AGAIN at 1:35PM (7/22)-
Hello Everyone - this is the Pro BBQ Team list as it stands this morning (7/22). I will post the Backyard shortly. Also, your welcome email with event details will be sent out today. Please check your emails for that information.

To register please go to - https://www.dodgecitydays.org/bbq-events

Any questions, please email [email protected]