For the first time, twins will be competing on stage together at the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Two sets.
Aaron (Speller 218) and Andrew (Speller 264) Marcev, from Mississippi, will both spell Tuesday. So will Garrett (speller 510) and Pierce (Speller 518) Bryner, from Utah.
It's Garrett's second year as a speller. Pierce was here, too, but just as a guest. Now, thanks to the RSVBee program, which allows spellers from competitive areas to apply for entry, Pierce will be on stage, too.
"We cheer each other on," Pierce said. "Last time, I felt like I was missing out on some of it. This year, I get to share the stage with him."
Garrett said he had hoped his brother would get to be there with him. He wants both of them to do well.
"It's going to be pretty exciting," Garrett said.