London’s Annual Waiters’ Race

On Sunday, about 50 professional servers from around London converged in Soho for the annual waiters’ race. This event, more than just a footrace, highlighted the unique blend of speed, style, and precision that defines expert waitstaff.

Participants navigated a course filled with both orderly and inebriated crowds, balancing trays with an ashtray, napkin, wine glass, and bottle of fizz. The challenge required them to not only be fast but also to exude an ineffable “waiterliness.”

“This is about style as much as it is about going fast,” said organizer Takashi O’Rourke, emphasizing the importance of panache and pizazz in the competition.

Competitors showcased various pre-race preparations. Marco Selver, 40, likened the event to the Olympics for waiters, ensuring he was limber with thigh pumps. Meanwhile, some contestants finished their final pre-race cigarettes or performed stretching exercises.

Pub workers faced a unique challenge, as they typically don’t carry trays at work. Alex Ilies, 34, who works at the Glassblower pub and placed second last year, noted the difficulty of maintaining balance. “The more you look at the tray, the more it wobbles,” he explained.

The waiters’ race celebrated not just speed but the grace and skill that make a professional server exceptional. As trays and spirits stayed high, the event showcased the artistry and athleticism of London’s finest waitstaff.