By Shernett Robinson, Co-ordinator, Features Desk.
The Rev. Glen Archer, spelling coach, with Cornel Grey (right), St. Catherine champion, of Portmore Missionary Prep, and Stacey-Ann Pearson, of Hydel Prep, who came second. - Junior Dowie/Staff Photographer
A calm and measured Cornel Grey of Portmore Missionary Preparatory School gave the boys the edge yesterday in The Gleaner's Children's Own-Sponsored Spelling Bee competition.
The happy 10-year-old fifth grader, who praises the competition for teaching him discipline as well as new words, will represent the parish of St. Catherine at the National Championship in February 2003.
It was a competition of moods with many disappointments, tears of joy, and tears of sorrow.
It was a pleasure to see seven-year-old Christopher Cole, who battled word for word among the more seasoned spellers. The 'baby' of the competition says he enjoys mathematics and likes to spell words. He promises to return next year.
Sixty spellers from St. Catherine competed in earnest at Phillippo Baptist Church Hall, Spanish Town. Anxious teachers, parents and classmates filled the hall to cheer on their favourite speller and didn't seem aware of the sizzling heat.
Stacey-Ann Pearson of Hydel Prep and Abigail Henry of Bridgeport Primary, challenged the champion boy, but had to settle for second and third place, respectively. Venice Smalling of McAuley Primary and Kimberley Anderson of Ewarton Primary completed the top five spots.
Champion teacher, the Rev. Glen Archer, was pleased with Cornel's success, describing him as a very controlled speller. He was sympathetic to Stacey-Ann, who he also coaches, and described her as a great supporter of all the spellers who he coaches.
Spellers representing St. Andrew get their chance this morning at 9 o'clock at The Gleaner's North Street offices, central Kingston, and are expected to spell for the entire day. Sponsors of the parish finals are: Bigga Soft Drinks, Kraft Foods, Tastee, Colgate-Palmolive, NCB, Jamaica National Building Society, Sangster's Book Store Ltd. and VMBS.
