A young graduate of Holland College’s Culinary Institute of Canada had the opportunity to compete in an international event in Istanbul, Turkey, recently, and earned himself the title of Junior Golden Chef of the Year.

Adam Loo of Springfield, P.E.I., was offered the opportunity to compete in the International Gastronomy Festival, which gives chefs the opportunity to learn more about local cuisine and share dishes from their own countries. Several hundred competitors from around the world gathered for the event, although Adam was the only North American in competition.

Adam had previous competition experience, including being a support member of the 2008 Youth Team Canada that placed 5th and brought home gold and silver medals from the Culinary Olympics held in Erfurt, Germany. It was this experience that led to the invitation to compete in the Turkish event.

“The Turkish team competed in the Culinary Olympics last time, placing 31st out of 32 teams. They wanted the opportunity to study our technique in competitions,” he said.

The Turkish team paid for Adam’s airfare and accommodations, and The Culinary Institute of Canada provided him with a coach to help him prepare and to travel to Turkey with him. Chef Instructor Hans Anderegg is no stranger to the culinary competition circuit, his students have brought back medals from all over the world, and he has been part of the coaching team for the last two Olympic events.

Chef Hans said that Adam’s previous experience served him well in the competition.
 
“It was a pleasure to coach Adam for this international competition. His dedication, willingness to practice, and great attitude helped him to earn the gold medal. Adam was a support member of the Youth Team Canada, and his experience on this team made him overcome some challenges in the competition in Istanbul much more easily.

Adam has just returned to P.E.I. to take on the position of chef at Clam Diggers Beach House and Restaurant in Georgetown.

In this picture: Adam Loo, left, and Culinary Institute of Canada chef instructor Hans Anderegg sightseeing in Turkey. Adam competed in the International Gastronomy Festival, winning a gold medal. Chef Hans was his coach.