Kerry-Ann Hepburn, Gleaner Writer

Morant Bay, St Thomas:

Shanae Graham of Middleton Primary yesterday successfully defended her crown as St Thomas parish champion of The Gleaner's Children's Own Spelling Bee.

Graham held off the challenge of eight-year-old Amelia Ebanks of Duckensfield Primary to win the title during competition at the Morant Bay Church Hall in the parish.

When asked how she felt about winning she said, "I am overwhelmed and happy!"

Her coach, Lavern Ross-Graham, said preparing Shanae this year was easier than last, because she is more focused. "She has been doing the work even when there is no work."

Looking ahead to the national spell-off, Ross-Graham, said "We will be working hard enough to be at least in the top seven."

Forty-nine students from schools across St Thomas faced spell mistress, Marlene Stephenson-Dalley, and assistant spell mistress Shernette Robinson.

The competition is presented in association with Jamaica National, Sangster's Book Stores, National Commercial Bank, Victoria Mutual, JTA Co-operative Credit Union, contributors, Tastee, Kirk Distributors, Continental Baking Company, WISYNCO and media partner, Television Jamaica.

Top Five

Shanae Graham - Middleton Primary

Amelia Ebanks - Duckensfield Primary

Kellis Rickards - Morant Bay Primary

Beyonce Taylor - Airy Castle Primary

Glenroy Taylor - Airy Castle Primary

Top Boy

Glenroy Taylor - Airy Castle Primary

Winning Word

A-P-P-R-E-C-I-A-T-I-O-N