Hispano Chamber of Valencia County 2023 Matanza

Makayla Grijalva | News-Bulletin photos

Steam billowed from gas-heated comals and discos at Eagle Park this weekend as a dozen teams from across the county cooked chicharrones, carnitas and more with a healthy dose of red chile at the World’s Largest Matanza, hosted by the Hispano Chamber of Valencia County. Roughly 9,600 patrons attended the event, one of the largest turnouts in the celebration’s history, following a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“People were looking for a return to the fun traditional atmosphere,” said Robert Lucero, HCVC president. “It’s like seeing friends and family that you haven’t seen in a long time.”

The chamber raised an estimated $55,000, which will contribute directly to scholarships awarded to local students. Lucero said chamber members are already planning for next year’s event with some fun changes coming he thinks will be a big hit.

Team Awards

2023 Grand Champion: 1. Rio Grande Matanzeros; Runner Up: AC Disposal; 3. Los Lunas Schools

People’s Choice Award: 1. Rio Grande Matanzeros; Runner Up: Team Gregory A. Baca

Liver: 1. The ChicaRones; 2. City of Belen; 3. AC Disposal

Carne Adovada: 1. Rio Grande Matanzeros; 2. Los Lunas Schools; 3. Team Gregory A. Baca

Chicharones: 1. AC Disposal; 2. Rio Grande Matanzeros; 3. Los Lunas Schools

Specialty Pork Dish: 1. Rio Grande Matanzeros; 2. City of Belen; 3. Los Lunas Schools

Iron Pig: 1. AC Disposal

Public Awards

Biscochitos: 1. Roseann Peralta; 2. Alice Ramirez; 3. Ramón Baca

Natillas: 1. María Maez Márez; 2. Antonio Sedillo; 3. Pam Ulibarrí

Pastelitos: 1. Elaine Montoya; 2. Denisha Sanchez; 3. Ramón Baca

Red Chile: 1. Lori Ann Martínez; 2. Elaine Montoya; 3. TeeCee Centeno

Salsa: 1. Kevin Jojola; 2. LoriAnn Martínez: 3. TeeCee Senteno

Tortillas: 1. William Trodden; 2. Jr. Martinez; 3.  Dorothy Flores