Belden Brick Celebrates Craft, Competition, and Color at the 2026 SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500

The excitement of the crowd, the rhythm of trowels, and the undeniable pride of the masonry trade were on full display at the 2026 SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500®, and The Belden Brick Company, a long-time sponsor of the event, was proud to support masonry’s most prestigious international competition once again.

As a dedicated sponsor of the SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500®, Belden Brick remains deeply committed to supporting the skilled masonry workforce that builds our communities and drives the future of the brick industry. This competition not only celebrates speed and endurance but also emphasizes craftsmanship, teamwork, and the future of the masonry industry, values that align directly with Belden’s legacy.

The Challenge: Speed, Skill, and Precision

Often referred to as the “Super Bowl of Masonry,” the SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500® challenges the world’s best masons and mason tenders to build a 26-foot-long, high-quality brick wall in just one hour. Precision, efficiency, and coordination are critical, as every brick is judged by both quality and quantity.

The Contenders: Elite Bricklayers from Around the World

The 2026 competition featured 28 elite teams representing the United States, Canada, Great Britain, and Australia, bringing international energy and world-class talent to the event.

Among the standout teams and competitors were:

• Returning 2025 World Champions: Cole Stamper, mason, and Forest Stamper, mason tender, who returned to defend their title with the confidence and focus of seasoned champions.
• Returning 2025 Top Craftsman: Darian Douthit, mason, alongside mason tender Trapper Reeves, continuing to set the benchmark for quality workmanship.
• Rising Stars: Jason McKinney, mason, and Ryan Burdette, mason tender, the youngest team to win the SPEC MIX Western Pennsylvania Regional Championship, demonstrated that the next generation of masonry talent is already making its mark.
• International Standouts: Team Amuso, consisting of Damian Amuso, mason, and Scott Law, mason tender, represented Australia with remarkable consistency and craftsmanship. Known for their high production rates and disciplined technique, Team Amuso has gained recognition on the international stage and continues to set higher standards for competitive bricklaying worldwide.

Crowning the World’s Best Bricklayer

After an intense hour of competition, Grant Helms, mason, and his mason tender, Keith Helms, won the top honor as the 2026 “World’s Best Bricklayer.” Their victory came from laying 726 bricks, marking another milestone in Grant's already impressive résumé. This includes winning the 2021 JR. SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500® and securing First Place in the Level 3 division of the MCAA Masonry Skills Challenge in Las Vegas. At just 18 years old, he also won $500 in the side competition “BEAT THE BRICKLAYER” by out-laying a senior mason in a 5-minute sprint event; a testament to the power of mentorship, experience, and dedication to the trade.

A Record-Breaking Performance

The 2026 event also delivered a historic moment as Garret Shafer established a new, high-volume bricklaying record, laying an astonishing 4,354 perfect bricks in just eight hours. This achievement highlighted the remarkable endurance and skill that characterize today’s leading masonry professionals.

Showcasing Innovation in Color

In addition to celebrating competition and craftsmanship, Belden Brick was excited to showcase our new glazed and metallic brick colors at this year’s event. These bold, high-performance finishes attract significant interest, highlighting how innovation and aesthetics continue to evolve alongside traditional masonry techniques.

Investing in the Future of the Masonry Workforce

For Belden Brick, the SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500® is more than a competition; it’s an investment in people. By supporting events that elevate the masonry trade, recognize excellence, and inspire future generations, we remain committed to strengthening the industry we have proudly served since 1885.

We congratulate all competitors, champions, and record-setters from the 2026 SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500® and look forward to building the future of masonry together.