Because there's over 45 competitors, there's no way the World Barista Championship can have all first round competitions on one day - in fact, two days is cutting it close.

With the first round heats split into two days, this meant that some baristas would be practicing in the back while others competed out front. Three La Marzocco GB5 machines have been provided in the back for competitors to practice and train on, along with three Compak Grinders provided by the Grinder Sponsor for the competition.  Each Barista has scheduled practice times on the machines, to avoid any kind of problems with machine hogging.

This back area is also used by the competitors store and organize all their gear, and for setting up their final preparations to get ready to head out onto the stage. Because of this, this is where most of the action at the WBC is every year, and I was lucky enough to be able to access the back to see the organised chaos.

There is also a fourth machine set up, where Baristas can also practice - it's out on the floor with public access, and it is set up as a "cafe" of sorts, where the audience can buy drinks, with half going to the SCAJ, and half going to a new scholarship fund the WBC has set up for National Champion baristas that otherwise could not afford to attend the WBC.

Here are some photos from the back area.

Colter Polising So what's he cleaning? Oy! A tamper? That's CoffeeGeek's prototype tamper? How'd he get that? Norge! Einar Holthe, the Norwegian Champion, with Tim Wendleboe, 2004 Champ and trainer.

Carl Sara Carl in the back with another member of Team NZ Mexico! Mexico's Barista Champion was trained by Klaus Thompsen, last year's WBC Champ. Thailand Thailand's National Champion practicing while her coach hams it up!

Heather Perry Heather looking very relaxed backstage. More Baristas! I don't even know who these guys are, but they were having fun! Team Polski This one's for CoffeeGeek's News Editor - Team Poland practising it up!