From November 23-27, 2025, Team USBG shook things up in Cartagena, Colombia at the 2025 World Cocktail Championship (WCC)!
The 2025 World Cocktail Championship kicked off on Sunday with Aperitivo Hour and a Welcome Dinner, followed by Competitor Briefings.
On Monday, Jonathan Stanyard competed in the WCC Classic Preliminary in the After Dinner category. Jonathan said that competing for Team USBG, “felt like a dream, and like an out-of-body experience. Being able to showcase my passion and skills on a global stage on behalf of the USBG was an honor.”
On Tuesday, it was Mariano Gil, Jr.’s turn to compete in the WCC Flair Preliminary. That night, everyone enjoyed dinner and a White Party in the garden.
On Wednesday, IBA Member Guild Presidents participated in the Annual General Meeting, while attendees had an opportunity to attend Masterclasses. The event ended that evening with the Gala Dinner and Award Ceremony, where Mariano was awarded Best Helper for his resourcefulness in sourcing a bottle of Monin Salted Caramel for everyone to use.
Raise a glass to celebrate their remarkable achievements and honor the hard work and creativity of all the competitors.
USBG National Board Member, Geo Thompson felt that “Cartagena was the perfect backdrop for the week - vibrant, warm, and full of life. That mix of history, ocean air, and energy gave everything we did a sense of celebration. Between the colors of the old city, the hospitality of the locals, and the sunsets on the water, the entire place felt like it was cheering us on. It was the kind of setting that invites connection, reflection, and gratitude. Being in a city that beautiful while building deeper relationships with our team and with the global bartending family made the whole experience unforgettable.”
Some of Jonathan’s most memorable moments “were those in-between prepping and competing. Moments over meals and lounging by the pool sparked some great conversation. Connecting deeper with the USBG team, as well as having meaningful discussions with other competitors and members of delegations from around the world. The experience was truly enriching.”
USBG National President, Ingrid Rodriguez “loved the gorgeous sunsets and the late night networking lobby parties.” She encourages USBG members to join the Team USA delegation (as competitors or spectators) in Macau at the 2026 WCC because “the ability to network with bartenders from around the globe is invaluable.”
Thank you to Reàl Infused Exotics and Finest Call for your continued support of Team USA!
Interested in joining Team USBG in 2026?
Check with your chapter leaders to learn more about your local qualifying competition (Classic and Flair divisions). Local winners will advance to one of five Regional Finals in 2026. Winners from each Regional Final will advance to the National Final to determine who will represent the US at the 2026 Pan-American Cocktail Championship, 2026 World Cocktail Championship, and more.