Speed Rack

Speed Rack 2013

Speed Rack is an annual international cocktail competition focusing on female bartenders. The competition was founded in 2011 by Ivy Mix and Lynnette Marrero with the aim of highlighting talented female mixologists in an industry often dominated by men. Speed Rack has gained recognition for not only showcasing the skills of female bartenders but also for its efforts in raising money for breast cancer research, education, and prevention.

Overview

Speed Rack provides a platform for female bartenders to showcase their speed, skill, and creativity in mixing cocktails. The competition is structured in a bracket format, where participants go head-to-head in timed rounds. Contestants are judged on their speed as well as the accuracy and quality of their drinks. The unique aspect of Speed Rack is its focus on promoting women in the cocktail industry and creating a supportive community among female bartenders.

History

The inception of Speed Rack dates back to 2011 when Ivy Mix and Lynnette Marrero, both prominent figures in the cocktail world, decided to create a competition that would serve dual purposes: to highlight the expertise of female bartenders and to support a charitable cause. Since its first event in New York City, Speed Rack has expanded internationally, hosting competitions in countries around the world.

Impact

Beyond the competition, Speed Rack has made a significant impact on the cocktail industry. It has helped to foster a sense of community and support among women in the field, providing a platform for networking, mentorship, and career development. Additionally, through its fundraising efforts, Speed Rack has raised substantial amounts of money for breast cancer-related charities, contributing to research and support services for those affected by the disease.

Competition Format

The competition involves a series of rounds where bartenders are tasked with creating a selection of cocktails from a standardized list as quickly and accurately as possible. Judges, who are renowned figures in the cocktail industry, evaluate the drinks based on taste, presentation, and adherence to the recipe. The bartender with the best combination of speed and quality advances to the next round, culminating in a final showdown to determine the winner.

Reception

Speed Rack has been met with widespread acclaim within the cocktail community and beyond. It is praised for its empowerment of women, its contribution to the cocktail culture, and its philanthropic efforts. The competition has been featured in various media outlets, highlighting its role in challenging gender norms in the bartending industry and its success in raising awareness and funds for breast cancer.

See Also

• Bartending
• Cocktail
• Ivy Mix
• Lynnette Marrero
• Women in bartending