The flagship Hyde Park event in London on Thursday (20 October) saw waiting staff balance their trays while running a 150 metre course.
Prezzo staff Muki Hashahi and Julia Kazimirova won Fastest Waiter and Waitress respectively, while Kensington Roof Gardens won the Best Dressed award.
Celebrations were led by Fred Sirieix, general Manager at Galvin at Windows, and formed part of Springboard’s four-day Front-of-House festival.
The yearly event aims to challenge negative perceptions of hospitality careers, with business around the country hosting taster days and career talks.
Sirieix said: “I was very proud to lead the National Waiters' Day celebrations on 20 October – it was a truly wonderful day that celebrated the ocean of career opportunities in hospitality, as well as the hard work of all front of house professionals.
“There has never been a more exciting time to both join and succeed in this very special industry. If you can dream it, you can do it.”
Races also took place at Wivenhoe House (Colchester), Tameside College (Manchester) and The Grand (Eastbourne).
Anne Pierce, Springboard CEO, said: “It was great to see front of house professionals represent their industry and all it has to offer.”