[mrnoble]

We made a similar error several years ago, misreading the rules regarding bag and tag in Michigan (I think). We actually spent about 6 hours working on the actual robot post BnT. When we brought it to the competition, we worked it out with the judges, and we were assessed a time penalty consistent with the amount of time we had spent on the robot outside of the allowed time. We just left it bagged in the pit until the time was up. It of course messed us up, but we still got to compete. Have them contact the regional event staff to have a conversation with the judges. FIRST is all about fairness, but it's also all about opportunity and support. I think they might find some help if they are straightforward with the judges about their situation.