SOUTH FORSYTH — Sarah Kale, a student at South Forsyth High School, was the Georgia winner of the 2014 Optimist International Oratorical Contest held recently in Columbus. Kale represented the Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club. This year's topic was “How My Passions Impact the World." According to a news release from the club, Kale talked about her love of horses and teaching young people to ride, helping them gain confidence and self-esteem. For her winning speech, Kale received a $2,500 scholarship and a plaque during an awards ceremony May 19 at South Forsyth High School. In appreciation of the school's support, and the help of oratory coordinator Jeannie Johnson, members of the Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club also presented a trophy to South Principal Jeff Cheney in Kale's honor. Jan Norman, oratorical chairwoman for the Sawnee-Cumming Club, praised Kale’s efforts.“Hundreds of students from all over the state competed, and we saw the toughest competition that I remember," she said in a statement. "But Sarah impressed the judges the most.“This was her seventh year of competing, so we’ve had the opportunity to see through her how valuable this program can be to our young people.”