flipping a hammer and driving a nail into a stump, became so competitive that they had to stop after people started getting hit. One of the most debated incidents is the kiddie pool fall. An unnamed member fell in during a gathering, but whether it was a push or a stumble still remains unclear. For the rest of that night, the kiddie pool doubled as a cold plunge for over-served members. Luckily, they are now onto their second kiddie pool. COMMUNITY IMPACT These gatherings used to be a monthly occurrence, but have lessened to four or five gatherings a year now. It also brings fun rivalries into local sports, like the Sea Girt basketball games. The group has extended a hand to any new members and supported various causes. They have supported many fundraisers, including one at Bakes Brewery to support a BYBC member with ALS. Many members also volunteer for local events like field days and Little League. All of these events have become a great way for younger dads in the community to meet new people and offshoots of BYBC have even popped up in other areas due to its popularity. There is a BYBC in Wall, “Rooftop Beer Drinkers” in NYC, and the “Whiskey Rebellion” in Virginia. All family or friends of the original BYBC who made the tradition their own. THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT AND BEER Looking ahead, BYBC will undoubtedly continue to grow. A new chili cook-off champion will eventually be crowned, and a younger generation will take over, keeping the traditions alive. The friendships formed in BYBC are what make it special, and after ten years, the bond couldn’t be any stronger.
names, including guys from different towns ranging from Point Pleasant to Bradley Beach. Since 2015, they have met 84 times, and the crew has become more than just a social group. If someone’s family member is going through something, it is understood that someone in BYBC always knows a guy; a doctor, plumber, or whoever is needed.
FROM TRADITIONS TO SCANDALS
Among the many traditions, the annual Chili Cook-Off and Stein Hoist contest are BYBC staples. They have had eight of these events, along with brewery trips and birthday celebrations in all kinds of weather, all year round. The Stein Hoist has only been won by triathletes or surfers, requiring strong delts and arms built for endurance, per Jason Martin. Don Griffin has dominated the competition for years. As an Ironman triathlete, endurance is his advantage. But some suspect his success is due to hosting the event, allowing him to train in advance. One year, he made everyone switch arms at the last second, catching everyone off guard, leaving them joking that that might have been the plan all along. The Great Chili Scandal of BYBC remains a legendary moment. During the second annual cook-off, the winning chili was disqualified when it was discovered that a contestant’s wife had cooked it. Despite being delicious, the rules were clear. He had to return the wooden spoon trophy, although it has yet to be recovered. Over the years. BYBC has had plenty of unforgettable memories. A Thursday night Giants game led to a BYBC outing at a bar in Wall, with the crew taking a trolley there and back. Hammerschlagen contests, which consisted of
BY MATTHEW BREEN The story of BYBC A Decade of Backyard Brews
T his year marks a decade of backyard brews. The Backyard Brew Crew started with five lifelong friends who were desperately trying to find a way to hang out. Their wives weren’t exactly close, and most get- togethers were organized by them. One day, in a group text, someone asked, “What could we do to get together?” The answer came back, short and to the point: beer. THE BIRTH OF A TRADITION The rules were set: no wives, no kids, no food. Jason Martin was the first to offer his backyard, suggesting a bonfire and a bring your own six pack policy. Plus another rule, it
had to be craft beer. To avoid interfering with weekend plans or getting too carried away with the brews, they settled on Thursdays. The first gathering was in April of 2015 at Jason Martin’s house, featuring numerous packs of beers and a kiddie pool filled with ice. That night, word spread, and an extended crew came together. By the end of the first night, 38-40 guys had joined in, and it was the birth of a new tradition. THE GROWTH OF BYBC- MORE THAN BEER All five original members are still part of BYBC. Over the past ten years, the email list has grown to around 130
20 April 2025
Stroll Spring Lake 21
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