Here is our minibot prototype. We plan to manufacture the final version in the next week (which should be, we hope, at least 1 second faster). As is, it starts when it touched the pole (has that option although not displayed in video for timing purposes), goes up in about 2.5 seconds, and comes back down on its own. We plan to cut weight, and have some other tricks up our sleeve.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9lT0lG14j0
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2009 Peachtree Regional Champs
2009 Palmetto Regional Champs
2008 Peachtree Rookie All Star and Rookie Highest Seed
There is a big difference between "we have not been able to figure out how to do it." and "it's impossible" or "don't even bother." Let's be constructive not discouraging. - PVCMike [more] 
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