The 2012 International Great Waiters Race

The Great Waiters Race (La course des Garcons de Cafe) is based on the traditional race from Paris dating back to the beginning of the 20th century.

It started in 1904 and it is possible to find old archive footage of races held in Paris, London and Berlin.

Early on, the race was organized in order to improve the recognition of the waiter profession in Paris. This is the reason why even today races have the French touch.
The concept is very simple. The waiters have to race as fast as possible holding a tray loaded with wine, without spilling any. Running is forbidden and only fast walking is allowed.

Today, the International Great Waiters Race in held more than 50 countries around the world.
Since 2010, Sydney has been running the race, which is organised by Events du Monde.
After the success of the 2011 race held at the Overseas Passenger Terminal, the 2012 race was held at the Finger Wharf in Woolloomooloo Bay with a picturesque setting and the best harbour view back drop in Australia.

Contestants from TAFE NSW Sydney Institute & Northern Sydney Institute raced alongside teams from Merivale, The Star, Pancakes on the Rocks and other iconic Sydney restaurants.

Winners from the male and female categories won a return trip to Paris, with overall prizes amounting to $20,000. Any person employed as a waiter, or enrolled in a hospitality training course is encouraged to enter.

This video is brought to you by SkillsIQ.