On Friday 7th March, the Abbey narrowly failed to win this competition for the third consecutive year. 52 schools/colleges in Northern Ireland started out last November in this competition.

In winning the Mid-Ulster Regional Heat last November in Oxford Island, Craigavon, they qualified for the National Final held in Island Valley Arts Centre, Lisburn. The four finalists were Methodist College Belfast, Thornhill College Derry, Aquinas Grammar Belfast and the Abbey Grammar Newry.

After a tense and closely fought competition, Methodist College emerged victorious. No doubt, the Abbey will next year be making a concerted effort to regain this prestigious tile.

The Abbey team consisted of Gerard McGuigan, Sean Bell, Steven Rice and Colm O’Grady and teacher in charge was Mr.Markey.