The Scripps National Spelling Bee won’t be held as scheduled this year because of the coronavirus, meaning years of preparation by some of the country's top spellers could go for naught. Kimble expressed confidence that the logistics of holding a bee later this year could be worked out. The Scripps bee began in 1925 and this year's, if it happens, would be the 93rd. Simone, a 14-year-old from Davie, Florida, had her regional bee called off earlier this week. A bee held in the fall would present new challenges for the academically gifted teenager, whose nonstop, year-round bee preparation includes regular private coaching sessions.