It was quick going at the Port Antonio Baptist Church yesterday as only 18 spellers, the smallest group so far this year, lined up to vie for the parish title in The Gleaner's Children's Own Spelling Bee finals.

Less than 10 minutes into the spelling that number was cut in half. The final eight settled down to some serious spelling but this was not to last a full hour.

When it was over, it was Teneel Palmer who was named champion, only the second female after eight parish finals.

It was not Teneel's first time, as she placed fifth before, but this year she was much better prepared.

"I studied a lot harder than last year. Last year, I didn't think I needed to study that hard, because I thought I knew the words," revealed the 10-year-old.

But she was back this year with the help of her parents, coach and spelling partner.

The champ is one of only two spellers from Boundbrook Primary, where Marlise Cowie-Adiansingh is in charge of the programme. The coach explained some of the difficulties she faced in preparing the students.

"Preparation is very hectic as it is a shift school and the time allowed for practice is very little," she said.

Cowie-Adiansingh said Teneel's ascension to the top spot was mainly the speller's doing.

"It is all on her part. The whole attitude; wanting to be the champion. She's a person who is dedicated," said Teneel's coach.

Teneel was humble in victory.

"I would like to place first but I will just do my best and see how it goes," she said of her prospects at the national finals.

tennesia.malcolm@gleanerjm.com

Number of schools: 10

Number of spellers: 18

Overall winner: Teneel Palmer

Champion boy: Rodane Taylor

Winning word: I-N-C-E-N-T-I-V-E

Winning school: Boundbrook Primary

Top five

1. Teneel Palmer, Boundbrook Primary

2. Rodane Taylor, Titchfield High

3. Shelby Bradshaw, Shebian Preparatory

4. Dachanelle Anderson, Norwich Primary

5. Sanjay Lindsay, Fair Prospect All-Age