ermuda?s culinary group Chaine des R?tisseurs hosted an international culinary competition last weekend.

The Grand Chapitre and International Young Commis Competition saw 19 chefs from around the world competing at the Bermuda College on Saturday.

Each participant was given four hours to prepare a three course meal for four people. The chefs were not able to plan their meals ahead of time and only discovered what their ingredients were at the beginning of the four-hour time limit.

Bermuda?s representative Marissa-Lynn Simons was excited to be involved in the competition. She admitted that competitions get her adrenaline running, but that she was looking forward to meeting and working with chefs from around the world with diverse styles and influences.

South African competitor Peter Vadas told last week that he was nervous and that he didn?t know what to expect. ?It all comes down to what happens on the day,? he said.

In the end Mr. Vadas pulled off a near perfect performance and walked away with the silver medal Finnish chef Arto Rastas took the gold and won a scholarship to a prestigious culinary school, Le Cordon Bleu, in Paris. Matt Batey, of Canada, walked away with the bronze.

The chefs arrived on the Island last week and started preparations for the event. They visited Wadson?s Farm to learn more about local produce and checked out the kitchens at the college, which were renovated specifically for the competition.

New Zealand representative Mat Jones was impressed with the local farm: ?It was quite interesting to see how they utilised the little space the Island has, especially as at home we have more than enough land.?

Jos?e Roy-Froncioni, head of the local chapter of Chaine des R?tisseurs, was excited that the event came to Bermuda. She told that sponsors such as Fairmont Southampton Princess hotel, Department of Tourism and Butterfield & Vallis covered the cost of revamping and outfitting the College?s kitchen to fit specifications. ?This is the first time this esteemed event has been held in Bermuda and we are thrilled to have such a plethora of culinary experts here on the Island. We believe this is a wonderful way of celebrating good food, good wine and good company.? She said.

The chefs were also treated to a variety of activities in the evenings including a BBQ dinner hosted by last year?s Bermudian winner, chef Dan Duperreault. The final reception was held on Saturday where medals were awarded and new members of the Bermuda division were inducted into the organisation.