My wife and I and two friends went by golf cart to the chili contest. We parked the cart at Saddlebrook Rec Center and walked a few blocks across the polo field. Yes, it did have a fertilizer smell but was not overpowering by any means and I would not call it a stench at all. The smell was not noticible once you entered the show area.
I thought the area for the cook off was well put together, had some great $1 beer, most of the chili was tasty (the Marine Corp Detachment was terrible, CareGivers was excellent), good music, happy people all over the place.
Getting out was easy for us. We walked the few blocks back over the polo field, got in our golf cart at Saddlebrook, went through the Saddlebrook tunnell under Buena Vista, onto Southern Trace and were home in 10 minutes.
I can understand how some people were upset about waiting in line with their cars and carts - but when you drive into the midst of a crowded event, what do you expect? Park a short distance away and walk in is the best idea.
Rotary did a great job of putting it together. I will be there next year for sure.
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