All business: Spelling bee finalists cut out distractions
OXON HILL, Md. (AP) — Naysa Modi attended the festive Memorial Day barbecue that kicks off the week for competitors in the Scripps National Spelling Bee, but she left on the first bus available to return to the convention center outside Washington where the bee is staged. She blew off that evening's opening ceremonies, too, feeling like she'd seen it all before.
Naysa, who first competed in the bee as a cherubic 9-year-old, is now a poised and accomplished speller in her fourth appearance, with a businesslike approach to match.
"I know what to expect now. I'm not that overwhelmed," said Naysa, whose outgoing personality masks a fierce competitive drive.