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Andrew with with Michel Roux Jnr |
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My Competition Experience – by Andrew Wilson, 2007 Finalist
The Roux Scholarship is undoubtedly the most prestigious competition for any young chef to win, but there is a lot more to it than just cooking. I've now entered the competition twice. In 2006 I made it through to the regional finals, where I met some fantastic people and judges including Gary Rhodes and Heston Blumenthal. Speaking to this calibre of chef only inspires you to compete again, which I did in 2007, where I made the finals.
The finals were held at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park London, you arrive at midday to be treated with the most superb hospitality, but this is just the start to a memorable day. From when you get changed into your special Roux Scholarship jackets from Bragard the competition starts. You then have an interview in front of film cameras, which is an experience within itself. Then it’s the wait in the judges lounge, where you are presented with a note detailing your classical dish which has been taken from Escoffier. You have half an hour to produce method and recipe and the cooking commences.
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Andrew preparing shallots |
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After two hours the judging is complete, and the day just gets better. There is the awards ceremony which is in front of 250 - 300 guests from throughout the hospitality industry and the media. All the finalists receive some exceptional prizes - from a set of Global knifes to champagne, and even a cheque for £750,which for a final is fantastic. Then, once the awards ceremony is over, the wine and champagne flows as the evening reception starts, where you can speak to all the judges, meet some new faces and enjoy some fantastic food.
The whole Roux Scholarship is a great experience and I would advise any young chef who has ambition and wants to test themselves in the best competition in the country to enter. As for myself, the experience went way beyond my expectations. A lot of people work very hard behind the scenes to make this a day to remember for you.
I will be entering again in 2008, where I will hopefully reach the finals and, third time lucky, perhaps become the 25th Roux scholar.
Thank you to all involved
Andrew Wilson
2006 Regional Finalist
2007 Finalist
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