Gareth Davis Sr, Gleaner Writer

Danial McPherson

Three-time parish champion, Danial McPherson, on Tuesday won the Porland parish final of The Gleaner's Children's Own Spelling Bee competition at the Port Antonio Baptist Church.

By virtue of this victory, Danial, a student of Titchfield High, is now the only person to win the coveted Spelling Bee competition for four consecutive years in the parish. She, however, had to stave off a brave challenge from cham-pion boy Rodane Taylor, who gave a spirited performance for his school, Norwich Primary.

"There was never any doubt in my mind that I would have won this competition," said Danial. "I was a bit nervous at first, as I was cognisant of the fact that other students are trying to win this championship."

Teacher Kerry-Ann Prince also admitted that, like Danial, she too was at one point a bit nervous. She explained that preparing her student for this competition was by no means difficult, as she had been there before. She noted that every effort will be made to keep her student focused, especially during the much anticipated all-island finals.

Quick information

Overall champion/champion girl: Danial McPherson, Titchfield High

Champion boy: Rodana Taylor (second) from Norwich Primary.

Winning word: -U-R-A-N-I-U-M

Other top-five spellers: Shelby Bradshaw (third), Shebian Prep; Kaveeb Brown (fourth), Boundbrook Primary; Teneel Palmer (fifth), Boundbrook Primary

Number of schools: 14 Number of spellers: 25