Let the three consecutive odd numbers be represented as:

• First number: $x$
• Second number: $x + 2$
• Third number: $x + 4$

According to the problem, the sum of these three numbers is 51. Therefore, we can write the equation:

$x + (x + 2) + (x + 4) = 51$

Now, simplify and solve for $x$:

$3x + 6 = 51$

Subtract 6 from both sides:

$3x = 45$

Now, divide both sides by 3:

$x = 15$

So, the three consecutive odd numbers are $15$, $17$, and $19$. The highest of them is $19$.

The highest number is $\boxed{19}$.

Would you like more details or have any questions?

Here are some related questions:

1. What would be the sum of the next three consecutive odd numbers?
2. How would the solution change if the sum was 81 instead of 51?
3. What if the three consecutive numbers were even instead of odd?
4. Can you find the middle number if only given the highest number?
5. What if the three numbers sum to 45 instead—what is the highest number?

Tip: When solving problems with consecutive numbers, remember that the numbers follow a fixed pattern that can be expressed algebraically, making them easier to solve.