Worldchefs Global Chefs Challenge cancelled due to pandemic

The Worldchefs Global Chefs Challenge, which was due to take place at the Celtic Manor Resort in Newport in October, has been cancelled due to the pandemic.

The event comprises three competitions and chefs were set to fly in from countries worldwide. However, due to travel and quarantine rules in their own countries, many finalists and judges were forced to withdraw, potentially leaving only European chefs to compete in the competition.

The Culinary Association of Wales (CAW) has therefore decided to cancel the event following discussions with partners, the International Convention Centre Wales (ICC Wales), the Celtic Manor Resort, the Welsh government and professional conference organiser Worldspan.

CAW president Arwyn Watkins (pictured left) said: "It is very disappointing because the Culinary Association of Wales and our partners have made a significant investment in resources and time to host this prestigious global competition.

"However, with the possibility that the competition would not run as intended, due to the global impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, it was not something that we are were prepared to support and underwrite. We set out to host the postponed Global Chefs Challenge Final 2020 and not a lesser, alternative competition.

"The only positive news is that we have received an assurance from Worldchefs president Thomas Gugler (pictured right) that the three Welsh chefs who were due to compete at the Global Chefs Challenge final will now be allowed to compete when the event is held at the Worldchefs Congress in Abu Dhabi in May 2022."

Danny Burke from Olive Tree Catering will compete in the Global Chefs Challenge; William Richards, a hospitality training officer with Cambrian Training Company, will compete in the Global Pastry Chefs Challenge; and Callum Smith from the Lion + Pheasant in Shrewsbury will compete in the Hans Bueschkens Trophy.