The Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corporation held its inaugural Cornhole Tournament on Thursday at Baer Memorial Park, Lehighton.

Cornhole tournaments have become big events, with professional matches being shown on ESPN and other sports networks. The Chamber wanted to make this tournament as close to regulation as possible.

“We have regulation boards, regulation bags and regulation distances,” said Kathy Henderson from the Chamber.

The competition began with 16 teams of two players each. After a series of elimination matches, it came down to two teams remaining: Mark Jensen of Schnecksville and Zach Palansky of Slatington, representing Servpro of Allentown; and Cole Rex and Darren Wannamaker, both of Lehighton, representing Primary Painting of Lehighton.

The first place winning team was Rex and Wannamaker. Each was awarded a 22-inch Tabletop Blackstone Griddle. Both griddles were donated by Walmart, Mahoning Valley.

Jensen and Polansky came in second place, with each receiving a gift card from Bright Path Brewing, Jim Thorpe.

In addition to the tournament, there were food trucks from The Chef’s Hotbox and Donut-NV, and ice cold beer by Bright Path Brewing.

“The proceeds help support the Chamber and our different projects,” Henderson said. “It helps support our local businesses and it’s also an event for the community to enjoy.”

CCEDC Member Relations Manager, Jessica Kohutka, shares, “The CCEDC is beyond excited to bring this popular game and brand-new Chamber event to our community. It is a perfect way to bring the people together for a fun evening of friendly competition and camaraderie as we support our local businesses and organizations.”

This event was sponsored by Andreas Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning of Lehighton and PPL Electric Utilities.

The members of the Carbon Chamber and Economic Development Corp. are a catalyst for continuously creating cooperative and prosperous businesses to enhance our community.