Q&A WITH PIT MASTER HEATH RILES OF HEATH RILES BBQ

Tell us about you and your BBQ style.
My name is Heath Riles and I’m from Olive Branch, Mississippi. I’m 39 years old and have been married to my beautiful wife Candace for the past 5 years. We have a 13 year old son named Blaine. I went from the corporate sales world to full-time BBQ guy over the past 5 years, and it’s been a fun switch. My BBQ style is rather unique. I blend the styles of Memphis, Carolina and Kansas City and come out with my own unique style. Sweet, spicy, savory, and a kiss of smoke is what I shoot for!

How long have you been participating in the competitive BBQ world?
I’ve been participating in competitive BBQ for almost 20 years, but I wasn’t really serious about it until 2006.

What’s your first thought in the morning when you wake up to compete in a BBQ competition?
“What is it gonna take for me to win?” Then, I try to execute a plan that I lay forward.

Why do you choose Cheshire Pork?
I choose Cheshire Pork because it’s the best pork I can get my hands on. Since using it, my scores have never been higher. Cheshire Pork is moist, juicy and flavorful, and always allows me to get consistent scores. If you’re not cooking Cheshire Pork, you’re not winning.

Who do you look up to?
I look up to Pat Burke, he’s out of Illinois. He has won more barbecue titles and championships than any living person.