Nerds of the world, unite; we may slowly be taking over. ABC decided to put the finals of the Spelling Bee in prime time. It didn't exactly draw "American Idol" numbers, but 9 million people watched:
Perhaps one intellectual athlete -- and finalist in the 2004 competition -- best summarizes the importance and purpose of the event. "The bee teaches you a lot about competition and life," said Akshay Buddiga, who infamously stepped up to the mic during '04's Round 6, received his word, fainted, got up and proceeded to spell the word correctly. "You don't always win, but you always have to work hard to get what you do win."
Comments
I find these major spelling bees pathetic. Of course I find nearly everything on television pathetic. Some of these kids go to live with specialty spelling coaches to train during the year - I'm not kidding. And for what? You won't get a scholarship in spelling or become a professional speller. I'm all for academic competitions but I think it's ridiculous when such a worthless topic is taken completely overboard.