KIPP Pride High School’s third straight Halifax County Library Quiz Bowl championship seemed to come effortlessly. Halifax Academy’s bid for an upset win came to screeching halt.
KIPP never lost a round and a controversial question was the beginning of the end for Halifax Academy, which was ousted in the third round, losing to Northwest Halifax High School, 50-40.
The question that led to the end of the academy’s chance for an upset was based on Mark 8:36, the text that in the King James Version says, “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul.”
Halifax answered the question using the word “forfeit” instead of “lose.” Despite one official challenge during the match and one during intermission, judges would not give the school credit for the answer, although the word forfeit is used in other versions of the Bible.
Thomas states his case during the challenge as Heather Lynch listens.
“I am upset,” said team member J.W. Thomas, who led the challenge. “I expected us to go further. I wish I had challenged it a little more. You can’t blame it on one question. We missed a couple. We had a good time here. I’m proud of KIPP, they did a good job.”
(The complete series of photos may be found on our Facebook page)
KIPP was paired with Halifax in a random draw and beat the academy, 130-80, in the first round. Roanoke Rapids defeated Northwest, 60-30. Northwest came back to beat Halifax Academy in the second round but would ultimately lose to Roanoke Rapids, 80-0.
Roanoke Rapids lost to KIPP in the second round but its win over Northwest would take the school to the title round, which KIPP won, 105-55.
Northwest team members discuss a question.
“We are very proud of each one of you who participated,” said Halifax County Board of Commissioners Chairman James Pierce, before handing out trophies. “We’re proud of your participation.”
For KIPP team member Johnnie Ingram, the win was about the time investment made. “We practiced every day, even at lunch.”
Jordan Barnes has been on the team since he was a freshman. “I feel like we’re continuing a legacy for the school. My sister was on the team two other times. We have a very strong team and worked very hard to get this.”
Roanoke Rapids team members ponder a question.
Alan Dickens, in his second year on the team, was pleased with the win and said it wasn’t as easy as it looked. “It always feels good to accomplish something. We worked hard. I feel really honored.”
KIPP will compete March 24 in the regional competition, which will be held at the Halifax County Agricultural Auditorium at 10 a.m.
