Participants set up chili stations and amenities

YUBA PASS — The 30th anniversary Great Yuba Pass Chili Cook-off occurred last Saturday after being postponed a week due to weather. Despite the date change, attendance and participation were remarkably high. A total of 16 teams brought homemade chili to be judged by hundreds of visitors, including a large group of snowmobilers there to enjoy the favorable weather and recent snow.

Jenny Varn commandeers the 1st place trophy

Although Jenny Varn, a five-time winner, did not bring chili to the Pass this year, she managed to get her hands on the winner’s trophy and claimed the victory for herself. Instead of acquiescing, however, the many judges picked a different winner.

Andy White raises his winning trophy

Another many-time champion, Andy White, reigned supreme this year with his “Lizard Country” chili. White first won over the judges in 1996 with his “Head First” chili and has now claimed victory five times. After passing Rick Simi’s three titles in 2022, White became the most decorated single-person team. White ties the all-time record of five championships with Jenny Varn, who has won as a member of various groups.

2024 Great Yuba Pass Chili Cook-off Standings

1. Lizard Country Chili — Andy White
2. Becky’s Bassetts Chili — Bassetts Station
3. Campbells Chili Soup — Campbell Family
4. 3 A.M. Chili
5. Mad Dog Chili
6. Rootin’ Tootin Rosco Chili
7. Bowl of Red

People’s Choice: Yuba Thai

Ass-Last: Dumb Luck Chili

Sheriff Mike Fisher, who had alone visited the Pass in last weekend’s blizzard with a can of Campbell’s Chunky Steak and Potato Soup to stake his claim on chili champion, was also given a special award with his picture and every position from first to ass-last.

Andy White presents Don Russell with the “Crackpot Chili” award

Finally, Don Russell was awarded a special 30th-anniversary “Crackpot Chili” trophy for his dedication to the event despite not having a winning entry in his 31 years of participation. Andy White presented the award with a few words of appreciation and light-hearted quips.