Michael Lee, Gleaner Writer

Davian Stewart being con-soled by his coach Errol Campbell when he broke into tears shortly after winning The Gleaner Company's Spelling Bee Championship for the parish of St Catherine. - Ian Allen/Staff Photographer

TEARS OF joy and disappointment flowed freely yesterday after the final two St Catherine spellers battled over 10 minutes for the title of parish champion at The Gleaner's Children's Own Spelling Bee competition, held at the Spanish Town Methodist Church.

When it was all done, Davian Stewart, second-place finisher last year, emerged winner.

"I cried because I came second last year and this year I came first," said Stewart.

He was quick to add: "I am excited about winning."

Overwhelmed with success

Indicating that he had put a lot of work into reaching this far, Stewart's sentiment was seconded by his coach and teacher, Errol Campbell, who said Stewart would get additional words or the dictionary and do diligent study sessions.

Campbell described his speller as very energetic and was overwhelmed with his success, as he defeated one of the Rev Glen Archer's spellers, Kadeem Campbell of Portmore Missionary Preparatory. Campbell, who was humble in victory, described Archer as his idol.

"Well, going up against him, I know that it would not be an easy task and actually he is one of my idols. I really look up to him because I admire his efforts."

He was nonetheless elated because he worked really hard for the victory.

Quick information

Winning word: E-X-C-I-S-I-O-N

Champion boy/overall champion: Davian Stewart, McAuley Primary School

Champion girl: Brittany Beckford (third), Portmore Missionary Prep

Other top-five spellers: Kadeem Campbell (second), Bitner Henry (fourth), Janielle Francis (fifth).

Number of schools: 34

Number of spellers: 58