Last weekend, the annual FIRST Robotics Regional Competition was held at the University of Waterloo. I go every year. Smart high school students making ‘bots and competing in a challenge that changes each year. What’s not to like?
FIRST is awesome…
and, in this town, pulls in big crowds…
to see bots do their thing, which this year includes…
shooting…
hoops, and…
navigating bridges that divide the…
playing field.
Like all good community things, this gig requires a ton of volunteers, and…
infrastructure, and…
help from sponsors.
Meta-photog!
The competition area is an endless bustle of activity, complete with…
mascots.
This year, I got right down in the action to get some shots.
Sometimes carrying two big cameras makes you look like you’re supposed to be there, and you’re mostly…
ignored.
There’s a good mix of good-natured competition and co-operation…
along with high style. Double points for pink lab coat + FIRST earrings!
And if you think it’s busy in the arena, just check out the…
pits!
Frantic-paced repairs and refits going on.
Great opportunity to get up…
close and see the guts and gear and different approaches.
Aluminum, electronics, motors, belts, pneumatics! Everything you need for fun.
Hold on a sec! Team “DAVE”…
from…
Waterloo?! That must be our local favourite…
from St. David’s High School, where my friend and coolest-high-school-teacher-around, Alex Matan works. Head nods from these busy builders confirm: yes, Mr. Matan, we know him.
So much cool…
gear, and…
smart, motivated makers. The future looks brighter.
Happy making,
DW
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