Richmond Senior’s Searcy takes 3rd in American Legion Oratorical Contest

ROCKINGHAM — Zane Searcy represented Richmond County this past weekend in a statewide speech contest.

The senior at Richmond Senior High School came in third place out of five contestants in the state American Legion Oratorical Contest, for the second consecutive year. Searcy also placed third in 2023.

“This was truly a great experience for me,” Searcy told the RO. “I had a lot of fun. While it was definitely a lot of work to prepare and execute, I would do it again if I could.

The event took place at Westwood Baptist Church in Cary. The winner was Natalie Starr Allan of Greensboro.

“I learned a lot, and made lasting connections,” Searcy continued. “I feel I made a lot of progress from last year, and placing third reflected that, as it was a very close and tough competition. It was a blessing to meet other kids that are undoubtedly on their way to make an impact on this nation.”

The most fulfilling thing about this experience was being able to represent Richmond County. This is my home, and I am very grateful to be able to show others what Richmond County has to offer. Our community succeeds in more than just sports, and that’s what this is to me, a success for the community. A win for RCO.

Searcy won first in both the district and divisional contests in February to earn his ticket to the state finals.

Throughout the contest rounds, Searcy was representing American Legion Post 147 in Rockingham.

According to Post 147 1st Vice-Commander Carlton Hawkins, Searcy delivered a modified version of the same speech from last year.

Searcy is president of the Senior Senate, plays baseball for the Raiders and the Richmond Renegades and is on the high school swim team. He also served as chief junior marshal at the 2023 graduation.

“The most fulfilling thing about this experience was being able to represent Richmond County,” he said. “This is my home, and I am very grateful to be able to show others what Richmond County has to offer.

“Our community succeeds in more than just sports, and that’s what this is to me, a success for the community. A win for RCO.”