At just seven years old, Allen Gage from Mabank, Texas, became the youngest winner of the “Battle for the Blue Ribbons,” beating all adults with his blueberry pie.
Competing in the fruit pie division, Allen’s blueberry pie impressed the judges, securing his spot in the prestigious “Best of Show” competition at the state fair this October. The young baker, who learned his skills from his mother and grandmother, attributes his success to his meticulous lattice crust, which he calls “painting the pie.”
When judges announced the winner, Gage’s mom, Roseanne Parsons, she went for the ribbon with Gage. She recalled the public’s reaction.
“When people realized it was him — not me — who won, they started clapping and cheering,” Parsons told Fox News. “Everybody was high-fiving him and giving him fist bumps. It was super cool.”
The State Fair’s Battle for the Blue Ribbons started in 2023, where Gage competed against about 240 other pies. According to the Dallas Morning News, Gage is one of about 50 kids aged 11 or younger who have competed in the past two years.
Gage’s journey began at the Kaufman County Fair, where he baked a pie along with his grandmother and was named “Grand Champion.” After this, his pie sold for $725.
Parsons says Gage is an active kid and enjoys many things besides baking.
“He plays football and soccer and loves our neighbor’s zipline. He also loves the water park and roller coasters, fishing, swimming and riding his bike,” she said.
If he wins the “Best of Show” title, Allen will receive $200, a purple ribbon, and have his recipe featured in the State Fair of Texas cookbook.
