The 2007 Southeast Regional Barista Championship and SunJam barista and roaster trainings will be held October 19-21 in Clearwater, Fla. This year's hosts are Ambex Roasters, Monin Gourmet Flavorings and Astoria/General Espresso Equipment. Fresh Cup is the event's official media sponsor.
The combination of the SERBC and SunJam marks the first time a SCAA-sanctioned regional competition will be held in conjunction with concentrated barista and roaster trainings. For starters, first-time barista competitors will attend a highly encouraged training on October 18, to help alleviate some of the fear factor going in. "People who haven't competed before are unnerved by experienced competitors," says Terry Davis of Ambex. "This will raise the level of competition across the board." Also, six to 10 decked-out barista stations will be on hand throughout the weekend for espresso-based skill building workshops, such as equipment maintenance fundamentals and adjusting espresso machines to accommodate specific blends.
Just as importantly, the event will be structured to bring baristas and roasters together, adding further value to the SunJam trainings and the weekend as a whole. "We want this event to foster interaction between groups that normally self-segregate," says Davis. A Cup of Excellence cupping is on the schedule, and one class in particular will combine the related roaster and barista skills of espresso blending and proper brewing temperatures for different blends. Social events are scheduled for each evening, including a softball game one night on a minor-league field. "We're trying to build a training community behind these competitions," says Davis.
SERBC section at www.SCAA.org
SERBC information and downloads at SCAA
SERBC Schedule of Events (As of 08/24/07)
SERBC Travel Information
SERBC Competitor Registration Form
SERBC Judges Registration Form
SERBC Volunteer Registration Form
SERBC Competitor Rules And Regulations
SERBC Judges Rules And Regulations
SERBC Head Judge Score Sheet
SERBC Technical Score Sheet
SERBC Sensory Score Sheet