On Thursday, September 24, Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa welcomed the Canadian Football League team, Ottawa REDBLACKS players Zack Pelehos and Sean McEwen to the kitchens for a special culinary experience with eight winners of the Gourmet on the Gridiron auction, hosted by the OSEG Foundation.

As part of its fundraising efforts, the OSEG Foundation offers unique, one-of-a-kind experiences through its auction. This year’s culinary experience brought auction winners together with two Ottawa REDBLACKS players for an afternoon in the Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa kitchens.

Led by Chef Camila Takahashi, the participants learned the techniques behind making classic French macarons, working alongside Chef Camila and her alumni assistants throughout the session. From preparing the macaron shells to assembling the finished creations, participants had the opportunity to put their skills into practice in a professional culinary environment.

The OSEG Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Ottawa REDBLACKS and Ottawa 67’s. Proceeds from Gourmet on the Gridiron support programs that help break barriers and create opportunities for children and youth in the community to play, learn and grow through sport.

The experience held a special connection for Zack Pelehos, Offensive Lineman for the Ottawa REDBLACKS, who had once aspired to become a pastry chef before pursuing his career in the Canadian Football League. He enthusiastically joined the group for the hands-on experience, bringing his passion for both food and football into the kitchen.

The experience concluded with everyone taking home an assortment of their freshly made macarons, along with a memorable afternoon shared in the Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa kitchens.

We were delighted to welcome the Ottawa REDBLACKS and the OSEG Foundation to Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa and to be part of an initiative that brings together food, sport and community!