The Barbados Community College (BCC) wishes to congratulate PomMarine Chef de Partie Tremaine Reece for winning The Oxtail Off, an international culinary competition.

Located in the United States, competitors come from around the world to compete for US $3,000, a trip for two to Barbados’ Crop Over festival, and international prestige.

Chef Tremaine placed first for his curried oxtail, wowing judges with his creativity and mastery of the cut and becoming the first Barbadian chef to win the event.

Originally a student at the Jean and Norma Holder Hospitality Institute (JNHHI), he went on to work at several prestigious hospitality establishments, including Sandy Lane, Hilton Barbados Resort, and Fairmont Royal Pavilion.

Chef Tremaine made the decision to return as a teacher nine years ago, bringing valuable experience and a passion for the craft with him.

His interest in teaching began upon graduating from the college, and noticing the skills his peers in the kitchen seemed to be lacking.

“My goal as an instructor has been to help bridge that gap by making students more aware of industry expectations and be better prepared for their careers.”

Since returning to academia, Chef Tremaine urges upcoming cooks to fully commit to their studies, cautioning that learning does not end at the door.

“Cooking is a constantly evolving craft. While the fundamentals remain unchanged, food trends, techniques, and global influences continue to develop. A chef must always be willing to learn.”

When asked what advice he would give persons interested in becoming professional chefs, he stressed the importance of listening, noting that he has grown in every kitchen he’s cooked in throughout his career.

“Those experiences collectively helped shape my identity as a chef.”

Local chef Damian Leach is set to compete this weekend in New York, and Chef Tremaine wished his countryman well, advising the contestant to be himself and let his personality shine through the dish.