Armed with spoons and cups, an army of chili lovers descended on Civic Arena Sunday to sample the wares of more than 50 spicy competitors.

The 23rd Annual United Cerebral Palsy Heart of America Chili Challenge drew hundreds of spectator-diners. The event in part raises funds for early intervention programs assisting children with disabilities from birth to five years old, said Teresa Gagliano, executive director for UCP of Northwest Missouri. The money also helps provide job placement, life skills and advocacy for adults with disabilities, she added.

“A typical number of 56 teams entered this year’s contest,” Mrs. Gagliano said. “We are full. We’re really glad we didn’t get the snow today.”

By early Sunday night, Mrs. Gagliano said the event had raised more than $65,000.

Angel Clinton of St. Joseph was among the hungry chili eaters, and particularly prowled around for some spiciness.

“I like the pork chili they have here,” she said, gesturing to the Knights of Columbus’ Bishop LeBlond Council No. 5067 booth.

Team member Dave Grable said the council entered two pork chilis and two regular chilis. The Knights began their work about 7:30 a.m., he said.

Attired chef-style, Jeff Drost dished up chicken white chili for the Merry Maids team. Their star ingredient turned out to be uncooperative.

“It was about a three- or four-hour deal,” he said of preparations. “The chicken took forever this morning. It was cold.”

It was the third year for The Sisters Three chili team, which doesn’t rely on a set recipe.

“Every year, it’s a little bit different,” said Alice Brazzell, who cooks with sisters Pat Rich and Rose Cunningham.

“She flies home from Maryland to do this,” Ms. Brazzell said of the latter teammate.

Two motives explain why the sisters enjoy the competition.

“The money that we make goes for a good cause,” Ms. Brazzell said. “It’s just fun.”

Sara King of St. Joseph spoon-fed her 3-year-old daughter, Shannon, as they strolled about the various booths. Ms. King had already sampled about six entries and was searching for “something that has seasoning but not spice.”

Ms. Gagliano said Heather Robbins and her Famous Dave’s BBQ Restaurant team won the Missouri State Champion title, followed by Marty Lyle and Realty Executives and Mike Decker and Apple Market North.

Famous Dave’s also won the professional division, while Realty Executives topped both amateur and commercial sponsor categories.

The People’s Choice Award went to Bill Swope and the Scottish Rite Boys are Back team, which raised more than $12,650.

Ray Scherer can be reached

at rscherer@npgco.com.