John Grater of Westfield was the runner-up for Kayem’s sixth annual “Create the Next Kayem Fenway Frank” contest. (Submitted photo)
WESTFIELD-While T. Daniel Stewart of Manchester, N.H., took the top spot for Kayem’s “Fenway Frank” contest, runner-up John Grater of Westfield enjoyed the “VIP” treatment he and his family received by the Kayem and Red Sox organizations.
“What a fantastic time we had,” said Grater, noting that Kayem surprised him with extra Red Sox tickets so his entire family could attend Friday night’s game.
“We were admitted into Fenway early and treated to on-field passes to watch the team during batting practice,” he said. “Right before the game started we were on field for the contest ceremony.”
Grater added that during the game his family had a private suite and were “treated like VIP’s.”
“The Red Sox treated my family with an amazing game,” said Grater. “Mookie Betts (Grater’s favorite current player) got us the win with a walk off home run in extra innings. This was Mookie Betts first career walk-off home run. To be able to witness that in person was very special.”
John and Tanya Grater of Westfield were treated like VIP’s on Friday at Fenway Park as part of the festivities sponsored by Kayem.
Kayem, maker of the Official Frank and Sausage of the Boston Red Sox and Fenway Park, challenged fans this spring to craft their best Fenway Frank recipes for the annual “Create the Next Kayem Fenway Frank” competition, now in its sixth year.
During Friday night’s Red Sox game, Kayem announced that Stewart will have his “The Boston Pork Party” dog sold throughout Fenway Park for the remainder of the season, as well as receive a $1,000 cash prize. The Boston Pork Party is a Kayem Frank topped with bacon, pulled pork, and coleslaw. Stewart also received a one-year supply of Kayem Franks, an official Red Sox jersey, tickets to Friday’s Red Sox game, and a one night’s stay at Hotel Commonwealth in Kenmore Square.
Grater had concocted “The Dirty Sox” recipe, which included French fries, chili, cheddar cheese, onion and spicy brown mustard. As the runner-up he received a cash prize of $500, one year of Kayem Franks, and a one-night Hotel Commonwealth stay.
“We were pleased to bring back the contest, once again challenging our fans to play a small but important role in the Sox’s 2018 season,” said Kayem senior brand manager Tony Wrubel in a statement. “Each year, the competition is ratcheted up as fans submit their delicious and innovative recipes.”
Aramark, the Red Sox food and beverage partner, is now offering The Boston Pork Party at the Aramark Monthly Feature Stand on the big concourse.
For Grater, the contest experience will be forever etched in his memory.
“It was a once in a lifetime moment for my family and I,” said Grater. “The Kayem and Red Sox organizations went above and beyond to take care of us and I would like to give them both a huge thank you.”
