Bradenton barkeeps compete in 'Bar Wars' at Clancy's

Last year, the first Bar Wars at Clancy's Irish Sports Pub pitted teams of bartenders from two Manatee County bars against teams from two Sarasota County bars.

It proved to be a popular event both with patrons and with bars, so it's back again this year, and it's going to be even bigger.

Lots of Bradenton-area bars wanted to get in on the fun. So this year's Bar Wars features six bars, all from Manatee County. Besides Clancy's and defending champion Cork's Cigar Bar, the participating bars include Paddy Wagon Irish Pub, Lost Kangaroo Pub, Motorworks Brewing and Fan-atics Sports Bar & Grille.

Each bar will send four bartenders to the contest, which is set for Monday evening at Clancy's. They'll compete in an obstacle course, a cooler-stacking contest and most creative drink contest.

The obstacle course sounds like the most fun. Each bartender has to carry a tray full of drinks through a series of obstacles, including squirt guns that patrons will use to try to harass the teams that are competing against their favorite bar.

A panel of four judges, including Bradenton Mayor Wayne Poston and Herald features editor Jana Morreale, will judge the creative drink contest, with the audience serving as a tie-breaker.

"It's just a fun way for the different bars to get to know each other," said Clancy's manager Dana Rothgerry.

There's no cover charge, but there are some drink specials including a free Motorworks craft beer tasting.

We will announce the winners Tuesday at Bradenton.com/entertainment.

Details: 6 p.m. Oct. 5, Clancy's Irish Sports Pub, 6218 Cortez Road, Bradenton, Cover charge: Free. Information: 941-794-2489, clancysirishsportspub.com.

-- Marty Clear

This story was originally published September 30, 2015 at 5:29 PM with the headline "Bradenton barkeeps compete in 'Bar Wars' at Clancy's ."