Annual Cork Japanese Speech Contest
In January a number of St. Mary’s students participated in the annual Cork Japanese Speech Contest. The contest was held on Saturday 28th, in Coláiste Daibhéid, in Cork city, with students from various schools around the city and county competing in four categories – TY English/Irish, TY Japanese, 5th Year and 6th Year.
Orla Rutherford (pictured centre) and Lisa Murphy were the two St. Mary’s representatives in the 6th Year category, with Orla claiming second prize in a very competitive grouping. She spoke about “My Friends” while Lisa chose the topic “My Future Dreams”.
St. Mary’s had eight girls participating in the 5th Year category. The title for their speech was “Self Introduction”, and the girls were required to speak about themselves for two minutes in Japanese – making good use of all they have learned since September! Competition was tough, but it must be said that all eight girls performed very well.
Finally, Aleysha O’Connor was the sole Mallow representative in the Transition Year categories. She participated in both the English/Irish and Japanese competitions, winning second prize in both categories.
On the day there was also a Poster Competition and a fundraising event for the Ashinaga Children’s Charity which works to help those affected by last year’s devastating Japanese tsunami.
The annual contest is an excellent opportunity for Cork students to meet other students of Japanese while also practising their language skills.
Congratulations and well done to everyone who participated.
