Herndon Student to Compete at National Championship Geography Bee

Patrick Hammes, a Herndon Middle School student in 7th grade, won the National Geographic Virginia State Geography Bee.

The National Championship is being held in Washington, D.C. today and tomorrow (May 24-25). To recognize Patrick’s accomplishment, Del. Tom Rust presented him with 55 Virginia lapel pins to trade with other students in the National Championship competition.

Patrick has been studying using books and online tools, according to a press release from Del. Rust. He enjoys learning about various landmarks around the world, different cultures and exotic wildlife, and would love to visit countries in southern Africa one day.

Though Patrick is a bit nervous about the competition, he is excited to meet other students who also enjoy geography. Del. Rust and his staff wish him the best as he represents the Commonwealth of Virginia at the Geography Bee National Championship.

The National Geographic Geography Bee started in 1989. Students compete for a $25,000 college scholarship, among other prizes. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.com/geobee. To see videos on the students competing, and eventually watch the competition online, visit http://www.youtube.com/nationalgeographic.