Two Central Coast students competing in Scripps National Spelling Bee

Two of the Central Coast’s own will be vying for the title of spelling bee champ as they head to the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Maryland.

14-year-old Samuel Low is from Salinas and speller number 20. He is in 8th grade at Washington Middle School. Samuel had the rare opportunity to co-pilot a $2 million airplane over 60 miles.

13-year-old Owen Mercer is from Scotts Valley and speller number 35. He is in 8th grade at Scotts Valley Middle School. If Owen looks familiar, that’s because he previously competed last year and tied for 42nd place.

Good luck to both contestants! You’ve made us P-R-O-U-D!