Teams of elementary and middle school students will test robots that they designed and built at the 4th Annual VEX IQ Rapid Relay Tournament, held at Reeds Spring Middle School on November 15-16. The competition runs from 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Friday, November 15 and 9:00-4:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 16.
“Students compete in three categories,” said Reeds Spring Robotics Coach Keith Kramer. “They drive their robot by themselves for a minute, and then they have their robots run autonomously for a minute. Finally, they drive with another robot on the field at the same time, working together to shoot balls through goals of differing heights.”
The robotics program teaches kids practical skills like designing, testing, and improving their creations. They also pick up soft skills such as communication and teamwork.
Admission is free. Coach Kramer encourages everyone to check out the event and see the creativity of these students.
“We’re also hosting the state tournament in February,” Kramer said. “So, it'd be really cool if you came in November and then came back in February and saw how well they improved.”
