In case you missed it, or are already reminiscing about it, here are some great photos from the USCC Qualifying Event last week in Kansas City
PHOTOS BY AKAASH SAINI* SPECIAL TO BARISTA MAGAZINE
*unless otherwise noted
Nuova Simonelli’s Gianni Cassatini (center) was his usual welcoming self, offering hugs to all whop entered the United States Coffee Competition Qualifying Event. Photo by Rita KaminskyJosh Taves (right), shows Blueprint Coffee coowner Mike Marquard the Kong coffee brewer, which Taves invented and manufactured. Photo by Sarah AllenTop six in the Western Conference of the United States Barista Championship Qualifying Event, including first-place finisher, Cole McBride (far right). Photo by Sarah AllenThe Cowtown Throwdown was an amazing evening of fundraising for the Noah’s Bandage Project, plus great music, beer, and people, including these folks. Photo by Sarah AllenLots of excitement brewing at the final pour showdown at the latte art competition during the Cowtown Throwdown. Photo by Sarah AllenTrevor Corlett of Madcap Coffee Co. serves up what will end up being the winning barista competition performance in the Eastern Conference of the United States Barista Championship Qualifying Event.Panda of Visions provided laughs and hugs for competitors and attendees alike.A view from the judges table at the Eastern Conference competition.Selfie break; Hugo and Julie get the job done.Judges evaluated coffees at the Brewers Cup Qualifying Event over the course of the four days.And there was Barista Guild of America cornhole for break time.At left, Kyle Ramage of Mahlkönig and Michael Harwood of Ceremony Coffee eagerly await the announcement of the top six in the Eastern Conference.Plaques by Reg Barber Enterprises.The top 6 in the Eastern Conference, including first-place finisher, Trevor Corlett (third from right).
