It is estimated that 164 waiters and waitresses took part in the annual Course des Cafés in Paris this year. The event was born at the beginning of the last century as a race of waiters and waitresses.
Eau de Paris, with the City of Paris and its partners, organised the race this year. Eau de Paris is in charge of the production, transport and distribution of water in the capital.
'City's Heritage'
"This race is an opportunity to highlight tap water in Paris with our partners, Parisian cafes and restaurants," says Dan Lert, President of Eau de Paris and Deputy Mayor of Paris. "They are part of this city's heritage."
The Race
On Sunday, trays in hand, the waiters and waitresses rushed from the Place de l'Hôtel de Ville, forked north, crossed the Marais before going down to the forecourt. In roughly fifteen minutes, they faced the asphalt, dodged difficulties, and tried to keep their balance. The judges then carefully checked the trays and levels of the glasses.
Waitresses Race
Pauline Van Wymeersch, from Café Le Petit Pont, won the women's competition in 14 minutes and 12 seconds. She wins a night with a spa, at the Hotel Mademoiselle (Paris 10th), classified 4 stars.
In second place, Anne-Sophie Jelic (Café Dalayrac) won a gourmet dinner at the Tour d'Argent (Paris 5th). In third place, Alexa Terrisse (Les Oiseaux) can enjoy a dinner for two at the Wepler Brasserie (Paris 17th).
These prizes were offered by GHR, the Paris Ile-de-France hotel and restaurant group, partner of the event.
Waiters Race
Samy Lamrous (La Contrescarpe) was the fastest waiter at 13 minutes 30 minutes, without any breakage. He will be able to enjoy a night with breakfast at the Villa Mademoiselle hotel (Paris 15th).
Pierrick Laquerre, who works at L'entrecôte de Paris, took second place. He wins an aperitif at the Spot 24 café (at the foot of the Eiffel Tower) with a free visit to the Olympic Museum.
Louis Donnat (Nulle Part Ailleurs), was in third place, he will be able to brunch at the Break, a Californian restaurant in the 17th arrondissement.
UMIH, a union of hospitality professions and industries, and Paris Ile-de-France, partner of the event, provided the awards.
