6-Year-Old Heading to Scripps National Spelling Bee
Most 6-year-olds are still learning how to read and perfect spelling is far off on the horizon. But apparently no one told that to Lori Anne Madison who, at the age of 6 is heading to one of the prestigious spelling bees in the world.
Lori Anne beat out 21 other spellers, including middle-schoolers from across Prince William County, Virginia, winning the the 34th Prince William County Spelling Bee. She was the youngest one in the competition, but that didn't intimidate her.
"I have been in competitions with older kids before and I have many friends, some younger and some older, and I feel comfortable in any group," she told ABC News
Lori Anne's love of spelling started when she was 3: "Some friends mentioned a small regional spelling bee, and I asked to go. Being on stage was fun. So I asked for more spelling bees since then," she said. "I started reading very early and I read a lot, and that helps. Plus, I work hard and love to find new interesting words in the dictionary."
Her victory in Virginia has earned her a coveted spot in the highly competitive Scripps National Spelling Bee, subject of the documentary "Spellbound." There, she will face off against regional spelling champions from across the world for over $40,000 in cash and prizes. Oh and glory, let's not forget the glory.
Lori Anne is the youngest competitor and potentially the youngest winner in the history of the Scripps National Spelling Bee, beating out the previous youngest by two years, according to Bee officials. But victory is the farthest thing from her mind.
"I'm very excited," she told ABC News. "I want to have fun with other kids who love spelling and learn new words. And hope to do my best."
How much does Lori Anne love spelling? She even agreed to help spell check this article.