Winning would be no surprise

Jody-Gaye Francis, Gleaner Writer

SHANAE GRAHAM, grade-five student at Middleton Primary School, St Thomas, who has been toiling relentlessly in her pursuit of the title The Gleaner's Children's Own Spelling Bee National Champion, believes she has the ability to win the coveted title.

Given her preparation for the February 1 event, Shanae said it would come as no surprise if she wins.

"I am working very hard and putting in my best. There are some challenges with remembering the correct spelling of some words, but I am working on them."

"She is focused on becoming the winner. She has a competitive spirit and doesn't give up easily. I have every confidence that Shanae will win. She is a hard worker. It was no surprise that she became the parish champion, even though she was the only representative from the school," said acting principal Lola Fraser.

Spelling bee coach Lavern Ross-Graham revealed that Shanae's progress has been steady under her supervision. Ross-Graham said she expects Shanae to make it to top three, despite the presence of seasoned 'bees' at the finals.

"The ability is present. The only thing lacking is intrinsic motivation. It has been challenging getting Shanae to spell some words correctly. But it was the same with the parish finals and she came through. Sometimes pressure can allow us to shine."

Should Shanae win the nationals, her coach said she would not be surprised. She paid tribute to Shanae's former coach Marcia Beckford. "She still assists and, without her, we wouldn't have made it this far. We would want to win this year, just for Ms Beckford."

rural@gleanerjm.com