The Dave & Rico Stache Bash is a friendly mustache and beard competition held to raise money for oncology research at the UT College of Veterinary Medicine. The 2024 event celebrates a life well lived, facial hair, and dogs; it will be held Saturday, March 2 from 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at Barley’s Tap Room and Pizzeria in Knoxville’s Old City.

In 2005, Dave Kirkendol along with friends Becca Tillery and Katie Kirkpatrick started the mustache competition in memory of Kirkendol’s dog, Rico, who had been treated for cancer at UTCVM. This year’s categories include Best Stache, Best Place to Hide a Criminal, Welcome to Puberty, and Most Creative. A silent auction will be held the night of the competition. Additional information will be posted as it is made available.

This year’s event is in memory of Kirkendol who passed away in 2023.