Kneippism, scherenschnitte and chaetophorous are difficult words to say let alone spell.
For 12-year-old Forrest Brazeal, these words landed him a spot at the National Spelling Bee competition in Washington D.C.
Brazeal loves to spell. When he learned about the Oakland Press Regional Spelling Bee two years ago, he jumped on board.
‘When I first started in the Oakland Press Spelling Bee, I found it a little difficult,? said Brazeal. ‘It takes about two or three years to master the words on the lists.?
According to Brazeal, the lists became harder and harder. However, that didn’t stop him from studying his way to success ? winning the Oakland Press Spelling Bee Regional competition on March 13.
‘I competed in the competition with 94 other spellers,? said Brazeal. ‘I won on the word ‘Beriberi.??
That victory took Brazeal to Washington D.C. to compete in the national competition against 273 participants.
The competition began on May 29 with participants treated to games, activities and a pizza party. Then on Memorial Day, the gifted spellers attended a barbeque at the Trinity Center. The day after was dedicated to a variety of tours. June 1 was the first day of competition.
Through different stages of competition ? written and oral ? the process of elimination took place. Brazeal finished 28 of the 273.
‘The word I missed was ‘Dengue,? which is an African fever caused by mosquito bites,? said Brazeal. ‘I am very happy that I was featured on ESPN.?
Participants reaching the second day of competition were televised on ESPN, something Brazeal really wanted.
Even though he was not the top winner, Brazeal is proud of his efforts and plans to compete in next year’s competition. As a thank you and congratulations, Brazeal was awarded a certificate, a watch and a $500 cash prize.
‘The entire experience was very exciting and educational. I had a lot of fun,? said Brazeal.
Brazeal resides in Clarkston with his parents and six siblings, where they are also homeschooled.
How did Brazeal find time to learn the words? He blocked out the background noise and studied till he felt comfortable.
‘I feel good about the way I study, and I would do the same in the future,? said Brazeal.