By Sam Cortes, Communications Coordinator
At the Manitoba Summer Games, while the athletes are out on the field giving their all, another team is working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure everyone is fueled and ready to go.
Leading the charge in food services is the dedicated Cam Bennet, with culinary expertise provided by Michael Machinski, also known as Chef Mike.
Today, we focus on a conversation with Chef Mike, who shares his insights about what goes into feeding hundreds of people at Manitoba’s largest ongoing multi-sport event.
By the Numbers
Chef Mike, who started in his family kitchen where he remembers cooking and baking with his mom and grandma, said creating a menu for the Manitoba Summer Games involves a ton of planning and consideration.
“[It’s about] focusing on a healthy, nutritious menu that takes into consideration an individual’s dietary needs and requirements, while also preparing food that kids would enjoy,” he explains.
The task is no small feat, especially when feeding hundreds of people daily. With 500 pounds of tomatoes donated by Vermillion Growers Greenhouses, 500 pounds of potatoes donated by Koshowski Potato Growers, 20,000 juice boxes, 7,000 granola bars, and countless other items, the scale of the operation is truly impressive.
A Rewarding Experience
The rewards of this role extend beyond just cooking.
“Working with the community and expanding my skills has been incredibly fulfilling,” Chef Mike says.
He also extends heartfelt thanks to the volunteers who have been crucial to this effort. “Without their support, this would have been an impossible task,” he acknowledges.
Special thanks go to his kitchen crew, including sous chefs Mike Makar and Dan Martin, as well as Kathy Derhak, Darlene Smendziuk, Michelle Nyquist, Mariann Harvey, and the many volunteers helping in the kitchen from morning until night.
As the Manitoba Summer Games continue, Chef Mike and the volunteers remain committed to ensuring every meal is both delicious and nutritious, making this event a memorable experience for you!
