Myrtle Beach Area Chamber Team Wins Community Cup Chili Challenge

On Friday, Sept. 23, 2022, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce (MBACC) took first place in the Community Cup Chili Challenge during the Beach 'n Chili Fest and 55th Annual World Championship Chili Cook-off held on Sept. 23-25, 2022, at Burroughs & Chapin Pavilion Place in Myrtle Beach.

The Community Cup Chili Challenge is a charitable event that features local organizations and professional chili-heads. Winners were chosen by festivalgoers who participated in the People’s Choice Tasting. The top three teams were awarded with donations given to their charity of choice. 

Along with bragging rights, the chamber raised $2,500 for Subs for Santa, an annual charity experience by Grand Strand Young Professionals that provides 150 Horry County children with gifts and supplies for Christmas.

“Our winning chili was made with ground turkey and carrot slices, and had a sweet and savory flavor. Because it was milder than some of our competitors, it was especially popular with the younger tasters,” said Shannon Furtick, chili team leader and MBACC’s business development services manager.

Furtick was joined by chamber employees Jen Brunson, Sandy Haines and Cindy Gettig. Last year, the same team of four took second place during the Community Cup, raising $1,000 for Subs for Santa.

Along with chili tasting and judging, the Beach 'n Chili Fest featured three full days of entertainment, including car shows, live stage entertainment, demonstrations, games and food trucks.