Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: The Washington Times Entry Title: Ovechkin scores 895h goal, passes Gretzky for most all-time; Big guts, bigger smiles: Taco Bell 50k draws hundreds; High-stakes gamble: Parents pour thousands into youth sports Entry Credit: Liam Griffin Judge Comment: Great range of writing with gamer, fun feature and takeout piece. All had solid details and kept reader engaged.
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: The Washington Times Entry Title: First female athlete to lose NCAA title to biological male wants honors returned to women; Transgender high school athletes shine; Transgender athletes still welcome at junior colleges despite NCAA,NAIA restrictions Entry Credit: Valerie Richardson Judge Comment: In-depth reporting with multiple sources that explained this important and timely topic.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: Richmond Times-Dispatch Entry Title: John O'Connor Entry Credit: John O'Connor Judge Comment: Great features on history of James Madison football program as it ascends into the spotlight.
Competition Comment: Another tough category to judge with all entries showcasing top-notch reporting and writing. There was a variety of entries with game stories, features and in-depth reporting. Well done!
