Zach Goodman (left) and Derek Cupples spent their time on the air, memorializing the “Miracle” on ice by the US Hockey team during the Olympics, then turned over that job and cooked chili. Their team, “Gold Standard Chili” won first in both Peoples’ Choice and Best in Show in the Minden St. Jude Chili Cook-Off. (Photo by Marilyn Miller)
By Marilyn Miller
The 2026 St. Jude Auction Chili Cook-Off winners were glad to see a sunny day for their cooking efforts. Historically, bad weather has followed the competition, but never has it affected the final outcome.
“’Thank You” to all of our sponsors, cooks, volunteers, bands and tasters,”’ said Randy Stephenson, chairman of the event. “The weather was beautiful, the music was rocking, the chili was popping and most importantly, we raised $15,115 for the Minden St. Jude Auction.”
“Thank you, thank you, thank you. See you in 2027.”
The overall winning team was Atlas Copco, led by Heath Harrington. Rounding out the Top 5 were Whatachili with Bo, Christy and Hays Branch, No Bypass Chili with Stewart Burson and Richard Gray, Give-All Project with Brian Hutchinson and Lee Stallcup, and Tootsie’s Kitchen with Heath Harrington and Chris Bordelon.
Gold Standard Chili, cooked by the team of Zach Goodman and Derek Cuples, was selected the Peoples’ Choice. Second place went to Tyler Morgan and Ryan Day of Trinity Operating with Blowout After Hours chili. And third place went to Tootie’s Kitchen (Chris Bordelon and Heath Harrington).
Best in Show first place went to Gold Standard Chili, cooked by Zach Goodman and Derek Cupples. Smoke Showing’s Austin Jones and Hank Ashley claimed second in Peoples’ Choice, and AC Services of Minden took third with their team of Kevin & Lanette Humphrey and Davis Lawyer.
Nearly 40 teams vied for cash and trophies this year. The Peoples’ Choice sampling attracted 70 tasters.