Down here in Texas, we like a good rodeo. Now whether that rodeo is with
cattle and horses or with
robots and goals don't make a bit of difference. In fact, we had one of each down here in the last month.
But I'm sure you're more interested in one than the other.
So I'll tell you about the Lone Star Regional.
First of all, the hosts were great. The rounds moved smoothly, the scheduling was intelligent and fair, and everyone was cordial. We spent Thursday morning passing out customized American flags to each team in the regional - one red, one blue, each with a team # printed on it. They seemed to go over really well, with many teams using them on their robot or in their pit.
Here are a few of my impressions of robots at the competition:
- 16 - Baxter vacuums up balls like some kind of ball vacuuming, point scoring, competition beating machine, which is, I guess, ultimately what it was. They had two unlucky rounds in the finals against some tough opponents, and that put them (and us) into second place.
- 624 - Cryptonite was, bar none, the best brute force pusher in the competition. Five wheels on three drill motors geared down until they just can't take any more means that it'll take a while to get there, but when it does, you'll know it. (The picture doesn't do it justice)
- 57 - So similar in function to our robot it was almost scary. Combined with great driving, and leopard skin everywhere, it was another solid robot from a solid team.
- 476 - Ponca City has blown me away again this year with another beautiful robot. Not only that, but it just happens to be an unadulturated pusher as well. It took them most of Friday to iron out their bugs after a weather-shortened build season, but Saturday they were looking good.
I'll think of some more to give y'all later, but I'm tired from all that robot rodeo action this weekend. Thanks to all of our great alliance partners, especially Baxter and Robo Lobos!