Wings and Football: VSU Ready for Blazin' Chicken Wing Fest 2011

VALDOSTA -- To many devoted fans, chicken wings and football go hand in hand.

On Saturday, Oct. 15, Valdosta State University Athletics and WJEM 1150 AM/96.1 FM The Jock will host Blazin’ Chicken Wing Fest 2011. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., wing and football fans can enjoy a chicken wing cook-off, trivia and games, live music and radio remotes, prize giveaways, and more on the corner of Williams Street and Jane Street, just outside Bazemore-Hyder Stadium. VSU cheerleaders, Blaze, and Blazer Spark are expected to make an appearance, and R&B artist J-Lyriq is listed among the entertainers scheduled to perform.

Blazin’ Chicken Wing Fest 2011 is open to residents of Valdosta-Lowndes County and the surrounding area. Those who believe they have the best chicken wings are encouraged to enter the cook-off portion of the festival.

In the Commercial division, area restaurants will compete for the title of Hottest Wings, Most Unique Sauce, and Best Overall Wings. Winners will receive a plaque and be featured in the winter edition of Valdosta Magazine. According to festival organizers, CJ’s Pub & Pool, Zaxby’s, Slap Daddy’s, Wing Zone, and others have been invited to participate. Slap Daddy’s won the Hottest Wings category in 2010; CJ’s Pub & Pool won the Best Overall Wings and Most Unique Sauce categories.

In the Individual division, area residents will compete for the title of Best Overall Wings. The winner will receive a portable tailgating grill and Blazer tailgating gear.

Judges include radio and television personalities, local leaders, and students.

Winners will be announced on Cleveland Field during halftime at the VSU Blazers game against the University of West Alabama Tigers. Kickoff for the Homecoming game is scheduled for 3 p.m.

Competitors will be able to sell their wings to the public.

Blazin’ Chicken Wing Fest 2011 competitors and vendors must be in their designated area by 9 a.m.

This is the second year Blazin’ Chicken Wing Fest has been held in Valdosta. Last year, Rivers Radio Group’s WAAC 92.9 FM Country conducted the festival in Remerton. This year, the group joined with VSU Athletics and WJEM 1150 AM/96.1 FM The Jock and found a home for the festival with Blazer football.

For more information about Blazin’ Chicken Wing Fest 2011, including entry fees and rules, contact Ric Sisler, director of marketing for VSU Athletics, at (229) 245-6402 or rasisler@valdosta.edu or Dennis A. Hampton of Hampton Marketing Solutions at dennhamp@gmail.com.