Speech Contests provide an opportunity for participating members to grow and for nonparticipating members to learn by observing proficient speakers. They also offer interesting educational programs for members and the public. Why should you compete?  

It's important that all contests be conducted fairly and that the rules are followed.

Since a speech contest is a public event, it should be planned carefully and conducted professionally. It is the contest chairman's responsibility to see that this is done. He or she must plan the contest budget, make room and audio arrangements, conduct a pre-contest and post-contest public relations program, and see that all bills for the event are promptly paid.

The contest chairman must make sure that: each speaker is eligible to compete and is familiar with the contest rules; audiovisual equipment is working; judges, timers, and counters are briefed on their duties; ballots are counted carefully; and then awards are presented to the winners in a ceremony that will inspire pride in Toastmasters. Although a committee may be formed to help with these tasks, it is the contest chairman's responsibility to make sure they are done.

District 82 offers two contest cycles with 2 contests per cycle each District year.