The Big Texan and the 72-Ounce Steak Challenge
Located in Amarillo, Texas, The Big Texan is a steakhouse renowned for its saloon-style atmosphere and the infamous 72-ounce steak challenge, which tempts adventurers to eat the colossal steak within an hour for a complimentary meal.
Meet the Movers
Jason Kibbe and his brother, Dennis Putnam, professional movers who transport the University of Virginia’s football equipment, are no strangers to Amarillo. “If you eat it all in an hour,” Kibbe mentioned, “you get it for free,” although they have yet to test their limits with such a daunting challenge.
Life on the Road
Though based in Virginia, Kibbe and Putnam’s work with Hilldrup, a moving company helmed by former UVA linebacker Charles McDaniel, keeps them traveling frequently. This week, like several others this fall, they were responsible for delivering UVA’s equipment truck—an 18-wheeler bedecked in orange and blue, loaded with everything from uniforms to coaching gear—to the site of the Cavaliers’ forthcoming game.
Cross-Country Journey
On Tuesday evening, the duo reached the University of California, Berkeley, roughly 2,800 miles from Charlottesville, where they set off on Sunday, well in advance of the 15th-ranked Wahoos’ Saturday clash against the Cal Golden Bears.
Seasoned Road Warriors
Kibbe and Putnam are seasoned travelers, having grown up accompanied by their truck-driving father. “It’s in our blood,” Putnam noted, expressing zero apprehension when preparing for long-distance trips. Their approach is straightforward, with Kibbe stating, “I drive 11 hours and then we switch,” allowing them to rotate driving duties efficiently.
No Need for Extensive Planning
They also don’t rely heavily on detailed planning. “We only use our maps when we get close to the stadium. We know how to get to the cities and towns that we need,” Kibbe added, highlighting their experience on the road.
Visible UVA Pride
Kibbe has been at the wheel of UVA’s truck since taking it to the Orange Bowl in Miami in 2019, while this season marks Putnam’s inaugural journey as his brother’s co-driver. Recently, Kibbe shared a photo taken during their meal stop at The Big Texan, capturing their Freightliner emblazoned with “Cavaliers Football” and V-Sabre logos. “People will honk or wave if they see UVA stickers on their cars,” Kibbe mentioned, showcasing the truck’s impact on fans.
