Food - Sourdough Challenge

Ankeny Baker Claims State Fair Sourdough Supremacy

Matthew Phoenix of Ankeny won first place and a $100 cash award in the Sourdough Challenge competition judged Saturday, August 12, at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.

Robin Tarbell-Thomas of Centerville earned second place and $75. Joyce Larson of New Market claimed third place and $50.

Entries were judged on taste and presentation.

The Iowa State Fair Food Department is the largest of any state fair in the country. There were 138 divisions, 695 classes and over 6,800 entries at this year’s Fair. Food Department judging was held in the Elwell Family Food Center.