Cheer dads take the win at Halecrest chili cook-off

The 11th annual Halecrest Park Chili Cook-Off attracted more than 15 contestants and 300 attendees Saturday.

The event at the privately run facility on Killybrooke Lane raised more than $1,000 for California Elementary School’s foundation.

First place went to the Costa Mesa High School cheerleader dads for their “Strong Man” chili. The Fairview Park Preservation Alliance got a “most unique” award for its “Ravenous Raptor” chili recipe.

Tasting judges were Police Chief Robert Sharpnack, Fire Chief Dan Stefano and Costa Mesa High School Principal Jacob Haley.

Participants included Costa Mesa Public Square, a Facebook group; Costa Mesans for Responsible Government, an activist group; Costa Mesa First, another advocacy group; the Costa Mesa City Employees Assn., the city’s municipal employee union; and Solid Landings Behavioral Health, a sober-living company.

Along with the chili, the event featured live music, a children’s bounce house, beer and wine.

—Bradley Zint