Impressions from the IKA 2024 in Stuttgart. Photos: IKA/Culinary Olympics
On 2 February 2024, the IKA/Culinary Olympics was officially opened with colorful flags from more than 50 countries. Four competition days later, the winners were announced, and today, one year later, this culinary competition of superlatives is still well remembered.
“What I remember most about the IKA are the perfectly equipped competition kitchens. I was also fascinated and impressed by how harmoniously and superbly our marshals worked. It’s incredible to see how a few people manage to put on an event like this. I would particularly like to highlight the staff at the VKD office.”
Daniel Schade, VKD President
“The best thing I remember was the wonderful cooperative and friendly atmosphere. Perfect planning and good organization of the entire event contributed to the fact that everything went really well – in a highly professional manner. The international teams were so well coordinated within a very short space of time that it felt as if they had known each other for a long time. I’m still in contact with some of the teams, and I’ve also received invitations for a visit – from Canada or Iceland, for example. You could describe it as a big family reunion. All in all, it was an experience I would do again at any time.”
Florian Gärtner, Marshal during the IKA 2024
“My highlight was that so many different people came together who share a common passion – regardless of background or distance. It’s great that something like this is still possible today. Sponsors and organizers who are willing to support young talent play an important role in this. Chefs who want to learn and achieve more are prepared to give their all to do anything. They support each other, work together and share their knowledge. Coaches, managers and the members of the ‘team behind the team‘ take the time to ensure that each individual can get the best out of themselves in culinary terms.”
Anne Kern, team captain of the national culinary team during the IKA 2024
“I particularly remember the intense emotions at the award ceremony. The moment when the pressure on the participants eases, the big laugh, the tears and finally the overwhelming joy – those were unforgettable goosebump moments.”
Thomas Friess, Chairman of the VKD Northern Regional Association
“I have never experienced this collegial, family-like interaction across national borders, with kindness and respect. All participants remained polite, even in stressful situations at the information desk – my place of work. Gender and age didn’t play a role in the exchanges between VKD colleagues either. It was good to see that women in the culinary profession are increasingly valued just as much as men. I was also impressed by the high significance of culinary art in the nordic countries. All in all, the IKA was a great experience and I’ll be happy to attend again next time.”
Eva Eckardt, Secretary of the VKD NRW Regional Association
