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WEST COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- Top pit masters from across South Carolina and beyond are getting the chance to show off their skills.

The Commissioner's Cup barbecue cook-off gets started Friday at the State Farmers Market in West Columbia. The two-day event wraps up Saturday and features teams from across the South vying for the bragging rights and top prizes.

The cook-off is sanctioned by the Southern BBQ Network, an organization of diverse and talented folks who sanction barbecue cook-offs in South Carolina. Some of the proceeds will benefit the Harvest Hope Food Bank.

State Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers will hand out awards on Saturday. The festivities are open to the public. Children ages 12 and under are free if they're accompanied by a parent and bring canned food items for Harvest Hope.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)