The smoky aroma of sizzling ribs, the clatter of grills, and the hum of friendly banter create the atmosphere that fuels Big Juicy BBQ, a fledgling competition barbecue team with a passion for flavor and camaraderie. Based in Pahrump, this trio of enthusiasts—Tommy Bolling, Kory Koning, and Michelle Bolling—has rapidly made a name for themselves in the competitive barbecue scene, earning accolades, fans, and an ever-growing love for the art of barbecue.
Big Juicy BBQ is all about delivering bold flavors and juicy, unforgettable bites. The team officially came together in July 2024, born out of Tommy’s quest to elevate his barbecue skills and Michelle’s encouragement to put those skills to the test in competitions. With Kory joining to round out the crew, the team launched their competitive journey just two months later in September. “We’re still new to this,” Tommy admits, “but it’s been an incredible ride so far.”
The team’s name, Big Juicy BBQ, reflects their ethos: big flavors, juicy results, and a bold presence on the competition circuit. While their focus is on competing, they approach their work with the heart of a backyard team, emphasizing fun and community as much as winning.
Each member of the team plays a vital role. Tommy, the self-described head cook, handles the competition logistics and recipe development, ensuring the team stays on track during high-pressure events, while also specializing in tri-tip. Kory specializes in ribs but also lends a hand across all categories. Michelle takes on plating and presentation duties, crafting visually stunning boxes that complement the team’s bold flavors. She also excels in creating standout sides and desserts, like her sweet heat mac and cheese, which has become a fan favorite. Though officially a team of three, Big Juicy BBQ is supported by family and friends who lend a hand during competitions, including Ashley (Kory’s wife), their unofficial “merch queen.”
In just a few months, Big Juicy BBQ has competed in three major events, including their first outing in September, a backyard competition featuring categories like hot dogs, hamburgers, tri-tip, and wings. They emerged as Reserve Grand Champions, placing second overall. Their creative spin on a hot dog—topped with brisket and Michelle’s signature mac and cheese—earned them second place in that category and first in tri-tip, setting the tone for their competitive potential.
Their second competition, the Las Vegas Barbecue Festival, was a slightly larger event, featuring 13 teams, including some from outside Nevada. Once again, Big Juicy BBQ shone, taking first place in the “Anything Blazing Star” category, third in ribs, and earning accolades for their tri-tip and other entries.
The third competition, the Las Vegas Barbecue Jackpot, was a true test of their mettle. With 74 teams, including eight world champions and personalities from popular barbecue shows, the stakes were higher than ever. “It was surreal seeing all the guys you watch on TV,” Michelle recalls. The team held their own, placing 11th in pork and dessert, a remarkable achievement given the level of competition. Michelle’s dessert entry, created entirely by her, was particularly praised for its taste and presentation, highlighting her versatility and talent.
Big Juicy BBQ’s competition days are long and intense, filled with meticulous preparation and precise execution. KCBS competitions, for instance, require teams to cook four core proteins: chicken, ribs, pork, and brisket. Meat inspections ensure fairness, and teams must marinate, season, and prepare everything on-site. Turn-in boxes must contain six portions per protein to satisfy the six judges, but the team often adds extra pieces to ensure judges have options. “You want judges to want a second bite,” Tommy explains. “That’s how you know you’ve done your job.”
The team’s equipment setup reflects their grassroots approach. They haul their smokers, rubs, and supplies in an enclosed trailer, which doubles as a prep area. “We’re literally a backyard barbecue competition team,” Tommy says with a laugh. Their gear includes Traegers and other borrowed or repurposed items, a testament to their resourcefulness. Despite competing against teams with state-of-the-art equipment, Big Juicy BBQ has proven that skill and creativity matter more than tools.
Beyond the competition, the team cherishes the camaraderie and community spirit of the barbecue world. “Everyone is so helpful,” Kory shares. “If you forget a tool, someone will lend it to you. It’s competitive but friendly,” Michelle added. The group has also built memories and friendships through practice sessions, often cooking for family, friends, and co-workers. “We’ve become barbecue snobs,” Tommy jokes, noting how their standards have risen since they began.
The public sampling events, like those at the Las Vegas Barbecue Festival, have given Big Juicy BBQ an opportunity to connect with barbecue enthusiasts. The team served nearly 470 portions, including ribs, chicken, and Michelle’s mac and cheese, which was so popular that people returned for seconds and even thirds. “The feedback was incredible,” Michelle says. “People kept asking if they could get more!”
Looking ahead, the team is preparing for their next challenge: the Slab-O-Rama in Bullhead City. This KCBS competition will feature the four core proteins as well as ancillary categories, including dessert, cook’s choice, and an SCA steak competition.
While competing remains a hobby for now, the team dreams of expanding their reach, potentially exploring catering or participating in larger events like the renowned Jack Daniels World Championship. For that to happen, they are seeking sponsorships to offset the costs of competitions and practice. From entry fees to supplies, the expenses add up quickly. “We’d love support from local businesses or anyone who believes in what we’re doing,” Tommy says.
Big Juicy BBQ is also working with the Nevada Barbecue Association to bring a competition to their hometown of Pahrump, hoping to inspire others to join the barbecue scene. “Nevada wants to make a mark, and we’re proud to be part of that,” Michelle says. Tommy is also working on building a custom smoker to elevate their game further. “If it turns out good, we’ll use it,” he says. “If not, we won’t!”
For now, the team is embracing each step of their journey, from earning accolades to connecting with barbecue icons. Tommy, Kory, and Michelle are showing that dedication, teamwork, and a genuine love for barbecue can lead to incredible achievements, even in the early stages. Big Juicy BBQ represents more than just a competition team—it’s a celebration of great food, friendly rivalries, and the connections forged around the grill.
