The Original Spring Lamb Barbecue celebrated its 55th anniversary on Saturday May 17 at the Crosetti Ranch nestled in the foothills of Watsonville, CA. Organizers raised $75,000 for the American Cancer Society this year.

This long-standing event, which has a reputation for being ‘stag,’ was attended by more than 750 men — and two women — on a picturesque day. Lamb was barbecued several different ways on four different pits, and there was a horseshoe tournament that included more than 60 teams on the historical property.Dan Nicola, chief financial officer of Cal Giant; Anthony Gallino, vice president of sales; and Ken Chappell, Spring Lamb committee member.

Over the 55 years of this long-standing event, hundreds of volunteers from the Pajaro Valley have been committed to participating in the Spring Lamb BBQ, which contributes to its longevity. The staff at California Giant — along with committee members — gain strong support from friends in the produce industry for the event and acknowledge those that have lost their battle with cancer each year. 

This annual BBQ was started by John Moncovich, the father of Bill Moncovich, chief executive officer and partner in California Giant Berry Farms, along with several friends back in 1959. They donated funds the very first year to the American Cancer Society and that tradition has held true ever since.       

In 2008, the American Cancer Society acknowledged the longevity of the event and the cumulative contribution of more than $1 million dollars. The society praised Bill Moncovich and the organizing committee for hosting the oldest, consecutively held, fundraiser for the American Cancer Society in the United States. This accomplishment was also recognized by Congressman Sam Farr at the 50th anniversary.

The lion’s share of the proceeds from the Spring Lamb each year are donated the local chapter of the American Cancer Society, and additionally funds are shared with the Jacob’s Heart Foundation, a local organization that supports families of children with cancer.

For more information on how to sponsor the Spring Lamb Barbecue held each year on the third Saturday in May and its fund raising effort to fight cancer, contact California Giant Berry Farms at 831/728 -1773 or visit www.springlamb.org.