[Bruce Newendorp]

Thanks to Tim Koch and the rest of the planning team for a great event. Everything was well organized and ran smoothly. The staff and volunteers were all very gracious and helpful. The venue was a bit chilly in the morning but warmed up nicely throughout the day. The team social was a nice addtion - it reminds us of previous years when these were common.

We had a great time working with 1986 and 4296 in the elimination matches. It was nice to be able to partner with our friends from Titanium instead of playing against them in eliminations at our previous regionals. It was awesome to see the drive teams working together to form a strategy and adapt as needed when opponents or situations change. The matches were intense for all involved and are typical of how these events go on Saturday afternoon. The game rules this year allow tough defense so it's up to us to make sure our robots are ready for it. Matches like these expose our weak points we need to design out in the future. Thanks to 171, 4143, and 2039 for the exciting finals matches.

Congratulations to Team Titanium on receiving the Regional Chairman's Award - well deserved.


My personal highlight was being able to welcome my wonderful wife Jan to the field when she received the CIR Woodie Flowers Finalist Award. Woodie presenting it made it even more special.