Scripps National Spelling Bee
Ends in Historic 8-Way Tie For the first time in its 94-year history, a record
eight spellers were crowned co-champions of
the 2019 National Spelling Bee. The winners spelled the final 47 words
correctly in five consecutive rounds. During the competition, spelling bee pronouncer
Jacques Bailly said the champions pushed the
competition into “uncharted territory.” Jacques Bailly,
via ‘ESPN’ Although the first and second place
prize money is usually split in the event of a tie, it was decided that each of the eight spellers
would be given the full $50,000 cash prize
as well as a Scripps Cup trophy. Paige Kimble, executive director of the
spelling bee, said the contingency plan
was developed in the bee’s earlier rounds. Paige Kimble,
via ‘ESPN’