Submitted article Two Bristow High School students recently represented their school and community on a national stage at the Cook Around the World competition held in Orlando, Florida. Raymond Roy and Star Killen, winners of Bristow’s first-ever local Cook Around the World competition, traveled to compete over the weekend alongside teams from across the nation.
While in Orlando, the students were partnered with a team of six from New Mexico, forming strong connections and friendships that will last a lifetime. Together, they collaborated, competed, and experienced a unique opportunity to showcase their culinary skills in a highlevel, team-based environment.
Participants were given an allaccess experience to Walt Disney World Resorts and competed in a fast-paced culinary challenge judged by professionals, including celebrity chef Duff Goldman of Ace of Cakes fame. Teams were randomly assigned a continent— Africa, South America, Asia, or Europe—and tasked with creating an appetizer and entrée inspired by that region. Roy and Killen’s team drew Africa and successfully executed a flavorful and well-prepared menu for the judges.
Bristow High School was proud to be one of only two schools from Oklahoma represented at this national event. In addition to the competition, students attended a formal gala, celebrating their accomplishments and enjoying a memorable evening together.
Although the team did not place this year, the experience provided valuable insight into the competition process and judges’ expectations. With this knowledge, Bristow FCCLA students are already preparing to come back stronger next year.
“This is an experience that will never be forgotten,” said their advisor Miranda Groom. “We are incredibly proud of Raymond and Star for representing Bristow with excellence, teamwork, and determination.”
Community members who would like to support future competitions and the continued growth of the program can make donations to the Bristow High School FCCLA activity account.