Cowgirl Rub Earns Top Honors at American Royal BBQ Rub Contest

Fat Boy Hickman’s BBQ is excited to announce that our Cowgirl Rub has earned 2nd place in the Spicy Rub category and 4th place overall at the American Royal BBQ Rub Contest — the world’s largest and most prestigious barbecue competition.

This isn’t Cowgirl Rub’s first time in the spotlight — it also took home 2nd place in the Spicy Rub category in 2018. And it’s not our only award-winner:

• Sticky Stuff Sauce: 2nd place, Mild Sauce category (2023)
• Sweet Rub: 4th place, Mild Rub category (2022)
• Haugwaush Sauce: Best Sauce on the Planet (2002)

Since its founding in 1980, the American Royal BBQ Contest has been a proving ground for the world’s best barbecue products. In 2024, the competition drew over 300 total entries, with nearly 140 rubs competing across multiple categories from 23 states and 9 countries. To place 2nd in Spicy and 4th overall among such a large, talented field is a major accomplishment and a testament to the bold flavor of Cowgirl Rub.

“We’re honored to once again be recognized by the American Royal,” said Kirk Malzer, CEO of Fat Boy Hickman’s BBQ. “Cowgirl Rub represents everything we love about BBQ. To see it win again is incredibly rewarding and a testament to our dedication to producing the best BBQ products.”

Cowgirl Rub and our full line of award-winning products are available in the meat department at major retailers including Hy-Vee, Kroger, County Market, Fareway, and many independent grocers across the country. You can also order online at www.bbqpitlife.com.