Berkshires Students Compete at State Latin Convention
Taconic students John Buckley and Robert Mottley wearing togas. |
HYANNIS, Mass. — Taconic High and Pittsfield High school students joined Mount Greylock Regional students in Hyannis on Friday, May 10, to participate in the 57th annual Massachusetts Junior Classical League State Convention.
Over 620 students and 70 adult sponsors from 18 schools competed in this three-day tournament sparing with words, wits and games.
Beginning with academic exams, all students then competed in their chosen categories. A full day of compeitions began at 6:30 a.m. with Swimming Olympika at the indoor pool of a local hotel. The rest of the events were held on the campus of Barnstable High School.
Other competitions included English Oratory, graphic arts and impromptu arts, track and field events, gladiator games and chariot races. The chariots were designed by students. The races took place on a rain-soaked football field. That didn't dampen the participants dressed in togas and sandles. A spirited Toga Parade with chants in Latin followed by an Awards Ceremony on Sunday closed the convention.
This was Taconic's first year, with 13 participating. Two from Pittsfield also competed.
Mount Greylock students, who attend every year for many years. They did well throughout different competitions with both chariot teams (boys and the girls) placing third. The Certamen team received third place, and scrapbook contest earned third place.