John Bil Oyster Shucking Competition

tuesday, april 8 | bar & bev stage | 3PM

Can you say 'fastest shucker on the block' three times quick? Take your shot at the 5th annual John Bil Oyster Shucking Competition at RC Show 2025. Compete and show-off your speed, precision and presentation at our coveted shuck-off. Prove that the world really is your oyster for the chance to win big!

2025 Competition Details

COMPETITION PRIZES

1st Place - $1,000
- Exclusive Entry into the Tyne Valley Oyster Festival + $1,000 in air fare & accommodation provided (up to 4 people)
2nd Place - $500
3rd Place - $250
Cleanest Plate: $100

What's Provided

Each contestant will receive 14 oysters of their choice, in which they will select their 12 competition oysters
A platter of coarse salt to present the 12 shucked oysters

What to Bring

Contestants must supply handwear, shucking knives, shucking board, and any other related equipment
Contestants may wear finger stalls or gloves
Contestants may use a towel to hold oysters in place
Contestants may carry one back-up shucking knife
All equipment must be approved by the judges

COMPETITION REQUIREMENTS

There will be 3 judges
Each shall have considerable experience and/or knowledge of the half shell oyster service
Each contestant will have a timekeeper
Contestants will be provided with 14 choice PEI oysters and must open and present 12 oysters
Contestants will poise his/her shucking knife at head height to indicate readiness
At signal of Master of Ceremonies, all timekeepers simultaneously start their watches and contestants begin to shuck
Contestants must tap the table or raise both hands overhead and step back from the shucking table when shucking is complete and oysters are presented to his/her satisfaction
The timekeeper will immediately stop the watch
Contestants may not touch tray of oysters after he/she has signaled completion.