Amanda Pevey
Elmore Autauga News
On Saturday, October 18, 2025, the Bradford Branch YMCA in Prattville hosted the 12th Annual Guardian Credit Union Great Grits Cook-Off. Over 1000 guests enjoyed a fun-filled day featuring live music, arts and crafts vendors, a magic show, bouncy houses, and plenty of delicious grits.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Guardian Credit Union as the title sponsor. They’ve been a vital part of our community for years, and there’s no bigger event in Prattville than the grits cook-off. Their support of the YMCA has been longstanding, and we’re excited to grow this event together,” stated Keith Cantrell, Assistant General Director of the Prattville YMCA.
For the eighth straight year, Promise Physical Therapy sponsored the 11th annual Nitty Gritty 5K. Awards were presented to all age groups, and each runner received free admission to the cook-off, and all received an endless supply of grits.
“The Guardian team had a wonderful time at the Guardian Great Grits Cook-Off this morning. We appreciate all the Prattville YMCA does to support our community and those that live in it and are proud to call the Y a friend of Guardian,” stated Rachel Stewart, Chief Experience Officer for Guardian Credit Union.
Local businesses, churches, restaurants, and individuals competed for top honors and were judged on taste, presentation, and originality. The overall winner received the Guardian Credit Union Golden Grits Bowl.
All funds raised from the Guardian Credit Union Great Grits Cook-Off went directly to the Coach a Child Scholarship Fund, an essential part of the YMCA’s commitment to making sure every child can participate, regardless of financial challenges. This fund helps keep YMCA programs accessible to families in need.
Winners of the Guardian Credit Union Great Grits Cook-Off:
People’s Choice Champion: WSFA
People’s Choice Runner Up- McCullar Crane
Presentation Champion: WSFA
Presentation Runner Up- Jettison Environmental
Grits Awards
Church/Non-profit Champion: First Baptist
Church/Non-profit Runner Up: Centerpoint
Restaurant Champion: Barberitos
Restaurant Runner Up: Hardees
Business Champion: Mark Harrell For Sheriff
Business Runner Up- ReMax Conerstone Plus
YMCA Team Champion: Emerging Leaders
Guardian Credit Union Golden Grit Bowl: Joey’s Car Wash
