'Comment critically on the proper role (if any) of genetic testing in sport.'
Apart from describing immediate problems, a winning essay might also confront the paradox that while we celebrate the fact that a world champion athlete is one person in several billion, we disqualify them as soon as we discover why they are so exceptional.

Secondary school students between 14 and 19 years of age may enter the contest. All essays must be submitted by the student’s classroom teacher. As only three essays per class will be considered, teachers are urged to choose the best essays from a class to submit.

The essay is strictly limited to 750 words. One optional figure or image can be included in the essay. Any figure legend will be included in the word count. A picture of the student should also be attached if possible.

Whenever possible, please submit essays in English. However, students are welcome to write their essays in their own language and have them translated by their teachers/schools. If the original document was written in a language other than English, please provide the original composition as well as the translated one.

All essays must be received no later than April 25, 2018, 24.00 hrs.

Essays will be read and scored by at least three independent geneticists from the ESHG. Scoring will be based on the following criteria:

• Overall accuracy of genetic content (0-7 pts)
• Use of evidence to support an argument (0-3 pts)
• Is the essay focused on question? (0-3 pts)
• Writing quality (clear thesis, composition) (0-5 pts)
• References and citations (0-2 pts for several high-quality sources)

So a maximum of 20 points from each reviewer can be achieved.

1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners will be chosen. The winning students and their teachers will be announced by end of May/beginning of June 2018. Their names, photos, and essays will then appear on the ESHG website.

First Place Winner: EUR 300.- In addition, sponsoring teachers of first place students will receive EUR 1.000.- to organise a science project or to purchase classroom equipment.

Second Place Winner: EUR 200.-
In addition, sponsoring teachers of first place students will receive EUR 800.- to organise a science project or to purchase classroom equipment

Third Place Winner: EUR 100.-
In addition, sponsoring teachers of first place students will receive EUR 500.- to organise a science project or to purchase classroom equipment

All participants will receive a certificate of appreciation for their participation in the contest.