Bear in mind the intended benefits of a Speech Contest. Some are: * As a vehicle for practicing competitive speaking. If you thrive on competition, participating in a speech contest is a gratifying experience. The more practice you have, the better you get, just as in anything you do. * As practice in speaking before larger audiences. A Speech Contest at a level above the club may have a significantly larger audience. The speaker will not be acquainted with most of them, albeit the vast majority will be Toastmasters. * As publicity for Toastmasters. Toastmasters speech contests are public affairs, and can serve as publicity for the club. Prospective members can witness the activities, and the publicity surrounding the event (both before and afterward) can raise awareness of Toast