Shaniqua is Spelling B Champion
After spelling words like Asthma, Carnation and Indonesia and fending off six other spellers, 10-year-old Shaniqua LaBorde of the Troumaca Government School earned the right to be crowned champion of the annual Coreas and Hazells Inc. Haliborange Rotaract Spelling Bee Finals last Saturday November 1, at the Methodist Church Hall.{{more}}
With a whopping 80 points, the grade five pupil made her way through 10 rounds of intense competition with ease. The soft-spoken Rose Bank resident correctly spelled eight of the ten words that were thrown at her. LaBorde walked away with a brand new fully equipped Dell Computer System and a printer. Another computer system was donated to her school as part of her winnings.
Speaking to SEARCHLIGHT after her win, the elated youngster said she was excited to win and that none of the words were too difficult for her. âI used to practice everyday at home and at school,â LaBorde commented. The aspiring physician encouraged young persons to keep reading and even if they donât win in such competitions, that they should see themselves as winners and continue spelling and reading.
LaBordeâs win means that she will represent this country in the regional finals to be held in Grenada on November 15, 2008. Four other Caribbean countries will also vie for the chance at winning a scholarship.
Delivering brief remarks, President of the Rotaract club, Shevon Smith said that such a competition is key for the academic development of children. Smith urged parents and other businesses to jump on board in their effort to build the nation and also urged parents to encourage their kids more.
The finals were so well contested that two schools: the Sandy Bay Government and the Belair Government represented by Kimani Daniel and Venisha Hackshaw respectively tied for the third position with 60 points, while the St. Maryâs Roman Catholic represented by Rhian Williams placed second with 70 points. Daniel and Hacksaw each received a $300 cash prize while Williams carried home $500.
The other students were Daree Myers of the Buccament Government School, Semaj Gonsalves of the Diamond Government and Erica Simmons representing the Cane End Government School.
Courts St Vincent Limited donated the printer and a desk along with $3000. (KW)
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