Michael Lee, Gleaner Writer

Coach Maureen Reid is thrilled with the victory of Anphernee Wilson from St James. - Ian Allen/Staff Photographer

As the number of spellers diminished and the minutes wound down slowly, a humble Anphernee Wilson from St James' Herbert Morrison Technical High School showed true grit to win his parish championship.

He emerged victorious after spelling S-U-P-E-R-S-T-I-T-I-O-U-S, defeating David Rhoden of Supreme Preparatory School at The Gleaner's Children's Own Spelling Bee competition at the Burchell Memorial Baptist Church Hall in Montego Bay, St James, last Thursday.

An ecstatic Anphernee said his triumph was the reward for arduous study.

"From the time that I decided to participate in the Spelling Bee to now, we've put in a whole lot of effort with regards to preparation," he told The Gleaner.

His coach, Maureen Reid, who has played a major part in his success, said that she has sacrificed much for victory.

"This year was more difficult because last year the young lady who we had, had previous knowledge of what it was like being a part of the Bee, but he (Anphernee) had no experience whatsoever, so we had to teach him from scratch," Reid said.