Congratulations to Caleb Smith!
Representing the South Carolina District, Southeast Region, Caleb placed first among 9 regions and 54 contestants at the world championship event. As did all contestants, he also faced competition and triumphed in Optimist Club, Zone and/or Regional, and District-level competitions in order to reach the ultimate speak-off.
Coming in second place was Dominique Ruedaflores of the Pacific Southeast District, West Coast Region. In third place was Christopher Burrell, Kansas District, Midwestern Region.
The contest may be viewed on YouTube, Optimist International World Oratorical Championships. For the finals, please scroll to 2:20:13.