Indianapolis, IN – Get ready to cheer on Team Lake Murray Country as they represent South Carolina at the 2024 World Food Championships (WFC), taking place November 8-11 in Indianapolis, Indiana. For the fourth consecutive year, the Capital City/Lake Murray Country (CCLMC) Regional Tourism Board is proud to support this talented team as they compete for culinary glory in the world’s largest food sport event.
Representing the team this year are Chef Wade Penland of The Bistro and Chef Chris Williams of Roy’s Grille & BBQ. Chef Williams, a two-time WFC competitor, earned second place in the 2023 sandwich category and will bring his expertise in rice dishes to this year’s competition. Chef Penland, a newcomer to the WFC, earned his spot through a popular vote at the annual Taste of Lake Murray event. He will represent the seafood category in the competition.
“We are so proud to send these two outstanding chefs to represent Lake Murray Country at the World Food Championships,” said Miriam Atria, President/CEO of CCLMC. “This is an incredible opportunity to showcase South Carolina’s rich culinary diversity on a global stage.”
Meet the 2024 Lake Murray Country Team:
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Chef Chris Williams | Roy’s Grille & BBQ
Competition Category: Rice
“I’m honored to represent Team Lake Murray Country once again, and I’m aiming for the top spot this year!” -
Chef Wade Penland | The Bistro
Competition Category: Seafood
“It’s a privilege to represent our community at the WFC. I’m excited to bring our local flavors to the world stage!”
The WFC features 12 competition categories, from seafood to barbecue, and attracts chefs from nearly 40 countries. Teams compete for a chance to advance to the Final Table and vie for the WFC Championship title and $100,000 in prize money.
Lake Murray’s connection to WFC runs deep: in 2022, the event’s Final Table was hosted in Columbia, showcasing the Midlands as a leading culinary destination. Supporters can track the team’s progress and cheer them on by following CCLMC on social media.
For more details, visit LakeMurrayCountry.com, or call CCLMC at 803-781-5940.
