Get Ready…The 2017 SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500® Regional Series is Set!

Words: Matthew Cash, Brian TuttleStarting on July 22nd in East Tennessee the 2017 SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500® Regional Series of qualifying competitions will kick off the 24-stop North American tour that establishes the final roster of teams competing in the 2018 World Championship in Las Vegas at the World of Concrete tradeshow. This will be the 16th season that SPEC MIX® and its co-sponsor team will host the annual series of events initiated to showcase the determination, spirit and expertise of masonry’s skilled craftsmen. Releasing the 2017 SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 Regional Series schedule launches another campaign to further promote the masonry industry.

Watch the 2017 SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 Regional Series Promotion Video in English or Spanish.

It will be a banner year for the SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 program by setting a record high total of 24 qualifier rounds that will take place in 20 US cities and 4 Canadian provinces. The winners of each regional competition will earn a spot to compete in the 2018 SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 World Championship held at the 2018 World of Concrete trade show in Las Vegas, Nevada on Wednesday January, 24th.

For masons who believe they have what it takes to be the next “World’s Best Bricklayer,” the Regional Series schedule is a call to action to put their skill, speed and stamina to the test. By winning first place at their local competition, the finalists advance to Las Vegas where they face the ultimate battle–taking on the returning Champion, Matt Cash of Huntley Brothers Company and SPEC MIX TOP CRAFTSMAN® winner Brian Tuttle of Quik Trowell Masonry. Revered as the masonry industry’s Super Bowl, the intensity level in the SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 arena heats up quick when 4,000 spectators pack the house to cheer on the 26 world-class bricklayers competing for over $100,000 in cash and prizes, including a Ford F-250 Super Duty 4x4 truck.

The SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 was created to give back to the masonry trade. Developing the next generation of skilled masons and promoting quality craftsmanship remains the top priority of the campaign. The energy and excitement driving the event makes it the perfect workforce development initiative for recruiting new bodies to the profession while motivating experienced bricklayers to reach higher levels of performance.

One thing is certain, the SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 movement has ignited the passion, pride and competitive drive of masons around the world. Backed by all its sponsors, including new Platinum sponsor Hohmann & Barnard and Gold sponsor JAG Clamp, the event is laser focused on its mantra: Keeping the Trade Strong!

All masons interested in competing in a Regional Series competition should contact your local SPEC MIX representative for a registration form, or speak to your local masonry products dealer; they will connect you with our representative.

For more information on the SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 program please visit the event website www.smbl500.com.
Masonry Mortar: The Right Type for the Job
May 2025

When it comes to masonry construction, mortar is much more than “glue” that holds everything together — it’s a critical component of wall performance, longevity, and aesthetics. It can “make it or break it”. Whether you’re laying a foundation CMU wall or

MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 20 Recap: Mark Kemp, Superior Masonry
May 2025

How It’s Made: Clay Thin Brick
May 2025

Clay thin brick is a versatile alternative to traditional full brick. It comes in numerous colors and styles and offers something for every design preference. Thanks to the lighter weight, it is designed to reach spaces full brick cannot. From floors to c

Bonding with Masonry 2025: Q1
May 2025

This issue’s questions come from an Architect and a Mason Contractor. What questions do you have? Send them to info@masonrymagazine.com, attention Technical Talk. Q. An Architect asks how to create a narrow masonry pier between openings. Is there a min