CARMEL, Ind. – A dozen Indiana students will compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee that will kick off this Tuesday.
Carmel middle school student Ashwin Prasad has participated in spelling competitions for years, and hopes to take home the Scripps title as he will move on to high school soon and will no longer be eligible.
As the three-year reigning champion of the Hamilton County Spelling Bee, he feels confident about the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington.
“The key is to know the language pattern,” said Prasad.
The eighth grader must pass a preliminary test that will narrow down the field from 300 to 40 spellers.
“Once I get into the top 40, it’s all gravy. Just pass that test and then it’s all good,” he said.
Prasad did not pass the test the last two years but as he will make his way to Carmel High School next year, he wants to enjoy the experience.
“I just want to take it all in knowing it’s my last time as a speller,” said Prasad. “Maybe I’ll come back as a volunteer.”
The final round of the competition will air Thursday at 8:30 p.m. on ESPN.
