Nathaniel sees success on third try
Top Bees
1. Nathaniel Stone, Glenmuir High 2. Amoy Williams, Knox College 3. Romaine Walker, Spalding Primary 4. Desaunea Bhoorasingh, Vere Technical 5. Jaedon Daley, Knox College
Top boy: Nathaniel Stone, Glenmuir High Top girl: Amoy Williams, Knox College Winning word: A-Z-U-R-E Coach: Errol Campbell Number of spellers: 35
About the Champ
This is Nathaniel’s third time participating in The Gleaner’s Children’s Own Spelling Bee, but his first win. He shared that he was hesitant at first to come back in the world of spelling because he had been through the process before without success, but his mother encouraged him. Stone explained that he started preparing for the parish finals in March and that studying took up most of his summer, but decided that this was the last try, and so he gave it his all.
The 11-year-old, grade-seven student is a member of the Speech and Drama Club and is a student council representative. He admits that since the start of the school year, he hasn’t performed any council duties, but is looking forward to it.
Nathaniel on winning:
“I don’t have any words to express how I really feel. But I’m elated.”
Coach on winning:
“I’m really elated right now. First, I have to thank Mr Owen Rodney who had worked with Nathaniel prior and laid a solid foundation, so it was easy for me to guide him with the wisdom that I have. So I’m really happy and thankful.”
His coach states that it was an advantage starting preparation as early as he did. As they prepare for the national finals in February 2018, Campbell says he intends to use the same formula from last year – have a little fun and “tear the dictionary apart”.