Most that get to Galway do not win. As with any contest. I had 3 previous year’s attempts - landing in the top 3. With Oyster Shucking Contests there’s is a fine balance of who you are up against, your skills with the knife, and Luck of the Draw - for a great basket of Oysters - thats Mother Nature’s role in the BigGame. 2002 had a couple of bumps in the road - but I got a great basket of shells to work with.

Once you win the National, competitors may qualify for international competitions. In the Oyster World, TyneValley PEI is the Canadian Champs - and your ticket to Galway - home of the world Championships of Oyster Opening since 1954 - THIS is the “big game” the place where all Oyster Shuckers want to get to. But first, you’ll have to train for it.

If you want to go to the World Championships (of anything) you’re gonna have to win your National’s. Tyne Valley PEI is that place. On the first full weekend of August, since 1973, Shuckers gather, open oysters, and tell stories.

I suppose most folks choose to enter into any contest…even Shucking contests… Me? I was told i would be competing a mere 2 weeks after starting at Rodney’s Oyster House 1992.

The story of how I started making Oyster Stout in Toronto 1998ish and where it’s at Today. #Oyster #Stout #Beer #Bivalves #Sustainable #Shucking #ShuckerPaddy

VDay the biggest day of the year for every Oyster Bar globally! Wonder why? It’s the Zinc - and other tasty tidbits... have a listen.

An Oyster is an Oyster, just grab the sauce and go!...Not necessarily so... There are 5 Species of Oysters in NorthAmerica - and flavour is based on Species, Region and Grower - let’s get Oysterlicious!

You gotta start somewhere.... I’ve been asked many time HOW did you, a city kid from Toronto - ever get into the Oyster Biz? - well it’s a bit of a story...or two...