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Last year, George Rogers Clark High School senior Claire Martin was named the Overall Winner at the Distinguished Young Women of Kentucky state competition.

This year, Clark County is once again home to a strong finisher.

George Rogers Clark High School senior Madelyn Goeing finished statewide as 3rd runner-up while being named the overall fitness winner and finishing as the preliminary winner in the self expression category.

Since being named Distinguished Young Woman of Clark County in August – during which she competed with a half-dozen other local competitors – Goeing’s status has allowed her recognition in specific ways, such as being featured in the annual town Christmas parade in December.

From Jan. 12th-13th, Goeing – who aspires to a future career in the nursing profession – competed at the Singletary Center for the Arts in Lexington.

She faced off against DYW candidates from over 30 counties throughout the commonwealth, spanning the far west – such as Union County – to the far east – such as Carter County.

The competition assessed candidates in five categories: scholastic, interview, talent, self-expression and fitness.

As mentioned, Goeing topped all candidates in the category of fitness, while finishing high overall and as the preliminary winner in self-expression.

Lexington native Ellen Fei of Fayette County was officially named Distinguished Young Woman of Kentucky.

Goeing’s accomplishments were highly recognized, with City Commissioner Hannah Toole writing a response on her Facebook page.

“I am absolutely thrilled to congratulate Madelyn on her incredible achievements in the Distinguished Young Women of Kentucky [competition],” Toole wrote. “Security THIRD RUNNER UP [sic] overall is no small feat, and her dedication, hard work, and talent have clearly paid off!”

The official Facebook page of the Distinguished Young Women of Clark County – among other individuals and groups – also recognized Goeing’s accomplishments.

“What a great weekend for our Clark County program – Congratulations Madelyn Goeing,” the post reads.