Scripps National Spelling Bee Ends in Historic 8-Way Tie For the first time in its 94-year history, a record eight spellers were crowned co-champions of the 2019 National Spelling Bee. The winners spelled the final 47 words correctly in five consecutive rounds. During the competition, spelling bee pronouncer Jacques Bailly said the champions pushed the competition into “uncharted territory.” Jacques Bailly, via ‘ESPN’ Although the first and second place prize money is usually split in the event of a tie, it was decided that each of the eight spellers would be given the full $50,000 cash prize as well as a Scripps Cup trophy. Paige Kimble, executive director of the spelling bee, said the contingency plan was developed in the bee’s earlier rounds. Paige Kimble, via ‘ESPN’
