On the morning of March 28, Miramonte Latin students rose before the sun to participate in the 70th annual California Junior Classical League State Convention in Irvine, Calif. The CAJCL lasted for three days at Woodbridge High School, where students from across the United States competed in various contests. Over 700 Latin students participated in academic, athletic, artistic, and social events centered around the ancient language.
Out of 33 schools, Miramonte had the largest Latin club; therefore, they were put in the “Large category” and placed 1st Overall. For the first time in many years, Miramonte won the Spirit Award for its outstanding enthusiasm and passion. “We are so proud of how the students put their heart into all the events,” the Miramonte Latin teacher and newly elected Educator of the Year and State Chair for CAJCL, Matt Davis, said.
Additionally, many individual Latin students were successful in events, whether it was academic knowledge tests or fun athletic games. Junior Parker Hjortsvang placed first on the mottos, quotations, and abbreviations test after devoting time to studying. “I prepared for a couple of weeks beforehand, just doing a little bit every day. I was a bit shocked to win because other people were very good as well,” Hjortsvang said.
Other Miramonte students found success in athletic competitions. Junior Logan Letulle placed first in the 1600m, 800m, and 400m track and field competitions, as well as placing third in the 200m sprint, making him Miramonte’s most successful CAJCL Convention athlete. “I think it’s important to have athletic activities at conventions because there are a lot of kids who enjoy sports and have a lot of fun participating,” Letulle said.
Davis and Jennifer Mullowney—another Miramonte Latin teacher— were some of the many teachers who helped run the convention smoothly. “Magistra gave a workshop on Roman women, and I helped out with scoring events,” Davis said.
Miramonte continues to be the largest Latin club in the United States and hopes to bring back its formidable force to next year’s convention. Hjortsvang said, “I hope to spread the joy of the Latin convention and Miramonte’s glory by winning the next convention.”
