By Damion Mitchell, Staff Reporter
Trudy McLeary being greeted as she looks from the roof of her limousine on arrival at school, Ardenne High, in St. Andrew, yesterday. - Junior Dowie/Staff Photographer
WHEN THE clock stoke eight yesterday morning, Trudy McLeary, The Gleaner's 2003 Children's Own Spelling Bee champion entered the Ardenne High School grounds in diplomatic style.
Amidst resounding applause, resonant cheers and radiant smiles from teachers, students and well-wishers, the 14-year-old champion, who last Thursday was placed third in the 76th annual Scripps Howard Spelling Bee competition in Washington DC, arrived at school aboard a glittering gold limousine.
A seemingly palpable wave of pride gloated in the atmosphere, as the vehicle cruised down the decorated driveway, which was adorned with blue and white ribbons and balloons. When Trudy, her coach, the Rev. Dr. Glen Archer and her mother, Vinnette McLeary alighted from the vehicle, deafening shouts echoed from the pride-filled gathering.
"We are assembled here because two of our stalwarts have demonstrated the true meaning, spelling and pronunciation of the word 'excellence'," said acting vice-principal, Carol Walfall, whose comments led a relay of kudos.
"You both have made us exceedingly proud to call you our own," said acting principal, Merlene Bingham, while noting that yesterday was a special day in the life of the Ardenne family.
The morning sun had now ripened, but the heat was not a deterrent to the hundreds of students who basked in the excitement of the celebration.
Education Minister, Maxine Henry-Wilson said, "As far as we are concerned Trudy has won. She displayed absolute self-confidence, absolute self-control and absolute determination and, for us, those are winning combinations."
She said that while each student may not be able to achieve similar goals, there was the potential within each person to be the best at whatever goal he or she wish to accomplish. The minister also implored the students to be persistent in their endeavours, despite the challenges they face.
In her response, The Spelling Bee champion said she is particularly grateful for the support received from individuals and corporate entities which, she said, went a far way in influencing her success. To her peers, she said, "Even if you don't win in whatever you do, you should always do your best."
The Rev. Mr. Archer, who in 1965 won the Children's Own Spelling Bee competition said, "Let us not forget the process as we celebrate the product, the journey as we celebrate the climax, and the God-given potential to become the best of the best."
Both Trudy and her coach were presented with awards of excellence from the Ardenne High School.
