Lake Murray Country returns to the World Food Championships November 8-11, 2024 | Indianapolis, IN
October 29, 2024
Capital City/Lake Murray Country (CCLMC) announced that Team Lake Murray Country will return to the World Food Championships (WFC) for the 4th year in a row – November 8-11 in Indianapolis, IL. The WFC is the premier global food sport competition! Top chefs will battle for the ultimate food crown and a share of hundreds of thousands of dollars in prize money.
Chef Wade Penland was selected through a popular vote at CCLMC’s annual Taste of Lake Murray 4th of July fundraiser on March 21, 2024. He joins 2x WFC veteran Chef Chris Williams who took home 2nd place in the sandwich category last year, to form Team Lake Murray Country. Together they will represent the Palmetto State on the world stage. Since 2021, Taste of Lake Murray has been recognized as a “Super Regional Qualifier” for the WFC.
Team Lake Murray Country is ready to represent the Palmetto State at the World Food Championships, November 8-12, 2024 in Indianapolis, IL. (From left to right) Chef Wade Penland and Chef Chris Williams at the Columbia Metropolitan Airport.
Miriam Atria, President/CEO of CCLMC, shared her excitement, “We are so proud to send these two outstanding chefs to represent Lake Murray Country at the World Food Championships. This is an incredible opportunity to showcase our region and South Carolina’s diverse culinary talents on a global platform.”
The 2024 Lake Murray Country Team:
Chef Chris Williams | Roy’s Grille & BBQ | 2022 South Carolina Chef Ambassador
Competition Category: Rice
“It’s an amazing feeling to once again represent Team Lake Murray Country, my restaurant, and my brand at the 2024 WFC. This year, my sights are set on gold!”
Chef Wade Penland | The Bistro
Competition Category: Seafood
“I’m both thrilled and humbled to be part of this year’s World Food Championships. The chance to showcase our region on such a big stage is truly an honor. I look forward to representing The Bistro and making our community proud!”
Both chefs bring their unique talents and regional flavors to the WFC, where they will compete for a chance to advance to the Final Table, the WFC championship title, and $100,000 in prize money. Lake Murray Country has deep ties to the WFC. In April 2022, the Final Table was hosted right here in Columbia, SC, at the University of South Carolina’s McCutchen House, further strengthening the region’s connection to this culinary showdown.
Cheer on Team Lake Murray Country and stay updated on their progress in Indianapolis by following CCLMC on Facebook and Instagram!
About World Food Championships
The WFC is the world’s top food sport competition, where elite cooks compete for fame and fortune across 12 categories, including: Bacon, Barbecue, Burger, Chef, Dessert, Live Fire, Noodle, Rice, Sandwich, Seafood, Soup, and Vegetarian. Since 2012, teams from nearly 40 countries and every U.S. state have competed for a coveted Golden Ticket.
About Capital City/Lake Murray Country Regional Tourism Board
CCLMC is the official source for all things Lake Murray Country. To plan your next trip, find information on attractions, dining, hotels, outdoor recreation, fishing, golf, and events. Explore The Top Southern Destinations of Columbia, Richland, Lexington, Newberry, and Saluda. For more information about CCLMC visit LakeMurrayCountry.com or call 803-781-5940 | 1-866-SC-Jewel.
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