A little barbecue, plenty of laughs and a lot of community spirit were on display as local first responders squared off in a rib-eating competition benefiting area charities at Texas Roadhouse in Mount Dora.

The friendly competition brought together representatives from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Mount Dora Police Department, Mount Dora Fire Rescue, Umatilla Police Department, Umatilla Fire Rescue, Eustis Police Department, Tavares Police Department and Mid-Florida SWAT. The winning agency earned 10% of the restaurant’s sales from the evening to donate to a charity of its choice.

Contestants faced one important rule throughout the competition, no hands allowed.

After several rounds, the championship came down to Nick Menacho of the Mount Dora Police Department, JT Allredof Mid-Florida SWAT, Tatiana Vicente of the Tavares Police Department, Daniel Roman of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and Jeff McNeal of the Umatilla Police Department.

The final round added an extra challenge as contestants were required to close their eyes while being fed ribs by a fellow officer, drawing plenty of cheers and laughter from spectators.

When the competition came to an end, Daniel Roman emerged victorious, securing the win for the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. As a result, 10% of the evening’s sales will be donated to Lake County Sheriff’s Charities.

Congratulations to all of the agencies that participated and helped make the event a success.