After three days of fierce competition, the team celebrated a monumental success with wins across various categories, marking one of their most victorious outings yet.

In an outstanding individual performance, Sven Stumbauer clinched first place in Extemporaneous Speaking, overcoming top-ranked competitors, including reigning champions from Texas, Florida, and North Carolina. This marks CCHS’s first title in an individual event since 2015, with Sven also advancing to the quarter-finals in Impromptu.

The team’s World Schools Debate squad, featuring Lucas Rivera, Danny Alverez, Luke Meinhardt, and Alexi Hernandez, successfully defended last year’s championship title. They secured a decisive 4-1 victory over Miami Beach High School, following a tight semi-final win over Trinity Prep.

Another team effort by Seniors Rene Coto, Michael Tabares, and Junior Santiago Rodriguez led them to an impressive third-place finish, upsetting two top seeds to reach the semi-finals and paving the way for their teammates’ guaranteed spot in the finals.

The team’s achievements continued across multiple rounds, with a record 12 out of 28 students advancing to elimination rounds. Ignacio Chazaretta and Joe Alonso made it to the round of 32, earning silver bids to the Tournament of Champions. Sophomore Alfred Gonzalez Eloy reached the quarter-finals in Impromptu, while Victor Barreda placed fifth in Humorous Interpretation.

With 10 students attending their first-ever tournament, Columbus Debate’s future shines brightly.

Congratulations to all for an inspiring and formidable performance at Blue Key!