National League of American Pen Women
2026 National Limerick Contest winners
Congratulations Winners, by Susan Zerweck
Judges from the Santa Clara County Branch, in a blind reading, chose three winners and two honorable mentions. The Limerick Contest took place in March. The branch received 15 entries from seven Pen Women. Prizes awarded were $50 for first place, $30 for second, and $20 for third.
First Place Patricia Doyne, Diablo-Alameda Branch
Wilde-Beastiary
A wildebeest from the East
Feasted on water and yeast.
He blew up inside,
And is known as "the East's yeast-feast beast."
Second Place Carol White, Boca Raton Branch
Twins
Kelly and Kathy were twins
Engaged to Rick and Pete Fins
Before they were wed
They each bought a bed
And prayed switching wasn't a sin.
Third Place Patricia Doyne, Diablo-Alameda Branch
Harp Hazard
An Octopus Played Celtic Airs
On A Harp-Eight Arms Working In Pairs.
But Her Tentacles Tangled
In Strings, Nearly Strangled!
Enmeshed In Harp-Strings, She Just Glares
Honorable Mention Bette Lafferty, Tampa Branch
Fredie
There once was a guy named Fredie
Who loved a girl named Bette
So, he took her to town
Purchased a ring and a gown
But sadly, she just wasn't ready.
Honorable mention Bette Lafferty, Tampa Branch
Mary
There once was a gal named Mary,
Her hair was red as a cherry.
She was beautiful and thin
A beauty to win
But she couldn't find anyone to marry.