by Heather Graf
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - This week, Nashville is playing host to the National Bible Bee Competition, and the big crowd that comes with it.
Competitors range in age from seven years old to eighteen, and for four days, they will be quizzed on their knowledge and memorization of different scriptures.
"It's a really fun competition, and it's not just about the competition, it's also about knowing the word of God," said 11-year-old Noah Farley.
He's from Ohio, and is one of 300 kids taking part.
"It's a great way to meet people and to see others who share the same values as you," said his father, Matthew Farley.
James and Jake Larsen are two other competitors. The brothers and their parents made the trip from New York to Nashville, and say they've been studying the bible for months.
"It's not just about winning," said 12-year-old Jake.
This is the third annual National Bible Bee. The event has previously been held in Washington, D.C. and Chicago.
"You know, seven to 10 year olds learn 350 verses, 11 to 14 year olds learn 700 verses, and then 15 to 18 year olds learn 1100," said Kimberly Farley, Noah's mother. "I mean it's amazing what they're capable of doing."
The finals will be held on Saturday, starting at 9 a.m., and will run throughout the day at the Renaissance Hotel in downtown Nashville.
About $260,000 in prize money will be divided up among the winners.
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