On June 26, at the American Association of Woodturners (AAW) Annual Summer Symposium, held in Albuquerque, New Mexico, 15 year old Three Rivers High School student, Troy Jambers, tied for first place with another youth for his woodturned entry in the Youth Division (ages 10-17) Instant Gallery Contest.

Out of over 60 youths enrolled, Troy won the award for his off center mesquite candle holder and ebony candle entry. Off center turnings are very difficult to do, as was the long stemmed goblet that the other youth turned, so we figure that was a key factor in the judging. Troy also won Honorable Mention for his mesquite goblet and natural edge mesquite candle holder and candle entries. This is Troy’s second time to win First Place, out of only four years the youth gallery contest has been in effect. Two years ago, in Portland, Oregon, when Troy was only 13 years old, he won for his large eyeburl mesquite natural edge candle holder and mesquite sap wood candle entry.

Troy won $300, which he will apply towards the purchase of a new, larger lathe. We also look forward to receiving the AAW’s Fall issue of the American Woodturner Journal, which goes out to all woodturners in the United States, because it will contain highlights of the symposium, including mention of the award Troy won.