This article was updated to include a clarification.

ASHEVILLE - It was a turbulent year for Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College's Hot Food Team, as the emerging culinary artists endured Tropical Storm Helene and were forced to adapt to a coach switch-up ahead of competing on a national stage.

Yet, the hard work and perseverance paid off as they returned to Asheville with a gold medal and glory.

On July 29, the five-student culinary team competed in the American Culinary Federation's national finals in Las Vegas. The team was comprised of Ezrah Hanson (captain), Martin Deyman, Josh Jimison, Jack Ramsey and Carolina Salas.

On July 31, the emerging chef team was announced at the ACF's gala as the second-place team, still earning gold medals, certificates and golden toques (the

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