Legendary Pitmaster & Ireland Competitor
John Willingham was a legendary pitmaster whose team competed against Jim Quessenberry in the beef division at the 1985 International Barbecue Cookout on Galway Bay in Ireland.
Willingham was known for his innovative approach to BBQ equipment and technique. His presence at the Ireland competition speaks to the caliber of pitmasters who made the transatlantic trip — these weren't hobbyists, they were the best in America.
Pitmaster & Owner, Franklin Barbecue — Austin, TX
Pitmaster & BBQ Entrepreneur — Lubbock & Austin, TX
Pitmaster & Founder, Lexington Barbecue — Lexington, NC
Pitmaster — Memphis, TN
Pitmaster — Tuscaloosa, LA
Pitmaster — Mesquite, TX
Pitmaster — Chicago, IL
Veteran Competitor & BBQ Personality
Seasoned BBQ Competitor
Competition Pitmaster & BBQ Hall of Fame Voter
Competition Pitmaster & BBQ Personality
World Champion Pitmaster & Ireland Teammate
Creator of KC Masterpiece
North Carolina Whole-Hog Legend
2× World Champion 
Irish Cup World Champion 1985 Irish Cup World Champion 1987 
BBQ Hall of Fame Semi-Finalist 2019 
Arkansas Trav'ler Cooking Team 
Memphis in May 1978–1994