By Samantha Bolden | The Selma Times-Journal

The International Taste of Selma Cook-off Competition scheduled for this Saturday has been delayed due to competitors having prior engagements.

A Concordia College Alabama soccer game would have competed with the event, according to organizers. Many of the cook-off competitors have ties to the soccer program.

Kenyetta Banks, the event organizer, said the cook-off was also canceled so that people could have more time to register.

“We just needed more time to have our participants to be prepared and ourselves as well,” Banks said.

A new date for the event has not yet been confirmed, but the committee is strongly considering a date in the first week of October.

The inaugural event is designed for people to either split into teams or work individually to create a dish from other countries.

So far, there were only four teams who have signed up representing four different countries including Haiti and Jamaica.

Participants need to be at least 17 and older to participate in the cook-off, and anyone under 17 has to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Judges will decided winners based on creativity, appearance, originality, and authenticity. Trophies will be distributed for first, second and third place. A People’s Choice Award will also be given.

Banks expressed disappointment in the cancellation but does understand why it happened.

“When we do things, we want to do things in the correct order,” Banks said. “I am disappointed, but at the same time, I’m also relieved because I want the city to enjoy the event. If we don’t have the teams that we’re supposed to have or the food that we’re supposed to have, the community won’t enjoy it.”

Participants should pick up their registration forms at the Selma Police Department. Registration for the event is currently ongoing, but a deadline has not been confirmed yet. Team registration is $10 and public admission is $2. For more information, contact Banks at (205)586-3515.