Greenwood student named winner of ‘Write on. Ride off.’ essay contest

Saidee Holmes of Greenwood has been named the winner of the “Write on. Ride off.” essay contest sponsored by the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism and the Arkansas Department of Education. The contest asked students to submit a 500-1,000 word essay on “what they love about mountain biking in Arkansas.”

Holmes’ essay, “Shredding Through Arkansas,” was deemed the best by a panel of professional educators and writers. As the winner, Holmes received a $1,000 mountain bike package donated by The Walton Family Foundation.

Holmes also received a trip to the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) World Summit in Bentonville Nov. 10-12, where Governor Asa Hutchinson presented Holmes with the prize package.

In her essay, Holmes noted that, “Mountain biking is my favorite thing in the world, and Arkansas is my favorite place in the world to do it. Without the amazing views, wonderful people, perfect terrain, and gorgeous weather that this state has to offer, I’m not sure I would have fallen in love with the sport at all.”

The contest was open to all junior and senior high school students in Arkansas. Entry forms and other promotional materials with the theme “Write on. Ride off.” were sent to schools across the state.