I always wanted to be a memorable chef. I want to create moments of dining that people enjoyed and talked about their experience weeks after. So I had to prove to myself that I was good enough to accomplish that. I went to New York to compete in my first competition. Jose Valdez (left) finishes 1st at the 2019 Billion Oyster Project oyster shucking competition and I follow up by raising my hands seconds after him.

This was my 3rd competition and my 1st time at the nationals! What an amazing experience to be welcomed with open arms by the oyster community. Here, all the best shuckers from the country come together to defend (Jordan Gallet “Master Shucker” 2022) or compete for bragging rights for the year. The average professional shucking speed is 1 dozen oysters in 1 minute. I placed 12th out of 24!

Our prime purpose in life is to help, support, and love each other. I love my profession and would love to add the taste of brine to your event. Thank you to everyone who supported me in my journey to be the best version of myself. Especially to these amazing chefs, mentors, and brothers
Michael Diamond & Nihad Hajdarhodzic