FORT KENT – A Madawaska man has won a University of Maine at Fort Kent statewide French language contest and will go on to represent Maine at an international competition.

James L. Lavertu of Madawaska, who also is an active member of Le Club Francais, and Samuel Hilaire Duplessis of Waterville were selected as the two state finalists and will travel to Quebec City for the international finals on April 17.

The French Language Foundation/La Foundation de Langue Francais Euclide Gilbert, a nonprofit organization that was incorporated in the state of New Hampshire, sponsored the contest, which was free and open to all U.S. citizens. The organization was founded in 1952 to promote the study of the French language and celebrate the international dimensions of international French culture.

The contest, a dictation test, was held simultaneously throughout all the New England states and New York.

Two categories allowed seniors (adults) and juniors (up to age 19) to compete for an all-expenses-paid trip to Quebec City, where they will stay for two nights at the historic Chateau Frontenac, while competing in the international finals.

The selection was based on statewide competition in each of the states in conjunction with educational and cultural institutions. Cooperation for hosting the events in Maine was furnished by the UMFK and Waterville High School. The April event will bring together 120 contestants from five continents.