And the winner is

A traditional chili recipe with a bit of a zing took home first place honors in the Red Oak Express’ fifth annual chili cook-off Friday night.

Judges selected Hawkeye Ford’s entry as the best among 11 competitors, with one judge commenting it had “lots of zest, lots going on ... nice, chunky texture.”

Red Oak rehab’s Chicken Enchilada chili came in second and Fareway’s chili, featuring chunks of grilled steak, finished third. Red Oak Rehab’s chili also won a traveling trophy for the People’s Choice award, receiving the most donations from the 11 entries.

The event raised $800, which will be donated to the Montgomery County Historical Society, and the Red Oak High School Yearbook/Future Business Leaders of America organizations.

Those groups also raised an undetermined amount of money by selling drinks and desserts.

“This was a fabulous event that not only recognizes the top chili in Red Oak, but also raises funds for some very worthwhile groups,” Red Oak Express General Manager/Editor Gregory Orear stated. “Thanks to all the participants and folks who attended and donated to the event.”

The chili cook-off takes place each year at the fire station on the night of the final Red Oak home football game. Judges for the event included Orear, Red Oak Police Chief Drue Powers, and City Councilman Larry Brandstetter.