Outdoor Writers Association of California proudly honors winners of its 2025 Pat Vachini Writing & Photography Contest.
Evan Nguyen of Rio Americano High School took first place in outdoor photography with an image from Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in Vancouver.
“This image had me enthralled at first glance. I love the moodiness of the light, the deep midtones contrasted with the brilliant highlights,” said a judge.
“Nice composition of the orbs,” agreed a second judge, who praised Nguyen for “effective composition that provides an arresting perspective.”
Winning photography certificates of merit were Eli Payvandi and Lila Cesar, both from Rio Americano High School, Katrina Lin of Monta Vista High School, Shania Ruggenberg of Inspire School of Arts and Sciences, and Aiden Liu of Granite Bay High School.
Adeline Voegels from Novato High School claimed first place in poetry with her submission entitled “baby bay.” Judges lauded “this lovely story of childhood” which “conveys the conflicted feelings about entering adulthood.”
Winning poetry certificates of merit were Amaya Rambel of Castro Valley High School, and Sofia Gil Mbugua and Story Hadfield, both of Novato High School.
Eesha Dhawan and Kate Barnes from Sacramento Country Day School won first place in the articles division for their story, “Wildfires devastate Los Angeles, Country Day connections affected.”
“This poignant and precise report shows a brilliant understanding of modern journalism. The authors demonstrate a capacity for effectively rendering an overview while bringing the story home with relatable quotes,” praised a judge.
Winning article certificates of merit were Sarah Martin of Lynbrook High School and Corinna Kuo of Monta Vista High School.
Founded in 1986, OWAC helps outdoor media professionals inform outdoor enthusiasts, expand awareness of conservation issues, and create a new generation of outdoor-media content creators.
OWAC established the Pat Vachini Outdoor Writing and Photography Contest in memory of the wife of Don Vachini, longtime OWAC member and one of California’s foremost outdoor writers and photographers.