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From the “Bucket List” to BBQ champion
May 19, 2011
It’s safe to say that Harry Soo of Slap Yo Daddy BBQ can cross at least one item off of his bucket list.
After watching the movie “The Bucket List” in 2008, Harry and his co-workers decided to make their own bucket lists. Among the items on Harry’s list were two stretch goals … to compete in a barbeque contest and attend a comedy class and do a stand-up act.
An avid griller and BBQ’r, Harry actually began cooking at charity events in 2005 when his co-worker Janice asked him to help raise funds for the African American Association. It was a success; his several dozen co-workers declared that his brisket was “the best BBQ I’ve eaten.” They also suggested that Harry enter his BBQ in a contest.
In March of 2008, Harry took the first step to achieving his goal of entering a barbeque contest when he joined the California BBQ Association, and later, the Kansas City Barbeque Society.
His team was complete when his childhood friend, Mark, joined the fun. They dubbed themselves Slap Yo Daddy BBQ, because as Janice said, their barbeque was so good “it makes you want to slap someone.”
And apparently, the judges agreed … in their very first contest, Mark and Harry took home Reserve Grand Champion and first place in chicken.
These days, Harry and Mark are more likely to be slapping high-fives than their “daddy’s” as they continue to make a name for themselves on the barbeque trail. Most recently, they took top honors at the Morgan Hill No Bull BBQ Cookoff in Morgan Hill, Calif. in addition to the Kingsford Points Chase win.
Harry still enjoys firing up the grill for non-BBQ items such as his seared Ahi tuna with Maui Onion Dressing. Click here for the recipe.
He’s also a fan of raw fish. In fact, he served Johnny Trigg his very first helping of raw fish (seared Ahi tuna sashimi) on TLC’s BBQ Pitmasters.
Harry’s next goal is to make it to the 2011 Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational Barbecue in Lynchburg, Tenn.
Although the second item on his bucket list was later replaced by his being a back-up dancer for Janice during a company talent show, Harry’s right on target for fulfilling his bucket list.
