Maryland Third Grader Born Without Hands Wins National Penmanship Award

Sarah Hinesley beat out more than 100 others to win the Nicholas Maxim Award in the 2019 Zaner-Bloser National Handwriting Contest

Sarah Hinesley dreams of becoming a lawyer, a judge and the president. But for now, winning a national competition is a big achievement.

Hinesley, a third grade student at St. John Regional Catholic School in Frederick, Maryland, was born without hands.

But she's had no problem perfecting her penmanship, learning to ride a bike or spending time with her friends.

Hinesley beat out more than 100 others to win the Nicholas Maxim Award in the 2019 Zaner-Bloser National Handwriting Contest.

"When I got the reward, I was really happy and proud that I got it," Hinesley said.

"She's always got a smile on her face. I don't think we ever see Sarah without a smile," St. John Regional Catholic School Principal Karen Smith said.

Hinesley said she's happy to inspire others.

"By seeing my story, they can see that it's best not to give up and keep doing your hardest until you get to it," Hinesley said.

Hinesley was awarded $500 for her penmanship.

She is already looking ahead. 

"I want to be a lawyer and then a president and then back to being a lawyer and then become a judge," Hinesley said. 

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