Our 2026 Hosts

Shahina Waseem "UK CHILLI QUEEN"

UK Chilli Queen Flies Across the Pond to Ignite the Blaze For The Brave Pepper Festival in Gettysburg!

"For me, it's about so much more than hosting a competition. Over the years I've had the privilege of meeting incredible competitors, their families, organisers and volunteers from all over the world, and many of them have become genuine friends. Every League Of Fire event feels like a family reunion, and Gettysburg is one of those places where you instantly feel at home. Watching the sport grow has been an emotional journey. I've seen first-time competitors develop into champions, families travelling together to support their loved ones, and people from completely different countries brought together by a shared passion for chilli peppers. That's what makes the League Of Fire so special - it's fiercely competitive on stage, but off stage it's a wonderfully supportive community where everyone celebrates each other's achievements. Returning to Blaze for the Brave is something I genuinely look forward to every year. Jayson Pettibone and the entire team put their hearts into creating an event that welcomes everyone with open arms, and that warmth is reflected throughout the festival. The Gettysburg crowd is always fantastic, the atmosphere is electric, and it's a joy to catch up with familiar faces while welcoming new competitors into our ever-growing chilli family. As the League Of Fire's official host, I feel incredibly fortunate to have a front-row seat to the stories, friendships and unforgettable moments that unfold at every event. Seeing the sport continue to flourish around the world - and knowing that Gettysburg is playing such an important role in that journey - is something that fills me with enormous pride. I honestly can't wait to be back." - UK Chilli Queen

Kris "The Scoville Unit" Fragale

"I love this event, I cant explain how excited I am for it.
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The wing competition is close to me, I started my own event a few years back that many want to come to each year but can't due to weather and the time of year. Being able to host one at this massive charity event allows the other to participate and allows me to bring the pain. Its never about the exposure for me, its about passion and energy, feeding the crowd what they want.

This event opens a lot of feelings.  Moments like these I look forward to. I dont get to see so manynof these people but once a year, so spending 3 days with everyone truly is a special part of this event.” - Kris

Bret "Mayor Minion" Fadely

Bret "Mayor Minion" Fadely is back as our official emcee for Blaze for the Brave 2026. Known for fancy sports coats, craft brews, cowboy hats, and attempting peppers well outside of his tolerance range, Bret knows how to get the party started and keep it going all weekend long! Fun fact: Bret will be brewing the scorching craft beer for our spicy beer chug competition!

Will a new, vibrant, multi-colored blazer make its debut on Bret during 2026? You'll have to join us to find out!