The winners work at winning. They are always alert for any information that will help them. They try new things. A person who enters a barbecue contest just to cook, eat and have a good time will not be a regular winner. The winners go expecting to win.
Mental attitude has a lot to do with it.
The area in which you live has hardwoods. You don't use soft woods like pine and cedar, they contain a lot of oils and give off a foul taste. In the Southeast, hickory is the favorite. It has a deep, sharp taste that complements most any red meat. In the Ohio Valley you will find lots of folks using apple wood for barbecue.