Tallahassee's high school robotics team was among nearly sixty squads competing to go to April's national championships over the weekend. The action took place at Florida A&M University's Lawson Center.
Regional Director Wendy Austin said teams came from all over the U-S along with a few international squads.
"So this year we have 58 teams here. The average team size is 35 to 40."
Among the smaller units was the home team Tally Robotics. Member Eve Baucum admitted the competition was fierce.
"It is really hard! It's really difficult, especially with all these teams from everywhere. Some of them have more members and money than us."
And Baucum's teammate, Sam Prudom, said even perfectly functioning robots can still misbehave in the thick of battle.
"A lot of the problems we find are crashing into other robots or not being quick enough or spin around fast enough."
Each team's mechanical marvel must complete a number of complex tasks within tight time limits. Winners of the six regional tournaments will advance to April's national competition in Houston, Texas.
For more information about the tournaments:
