Suffield Shakedown 2015

[plnyyanks]

For those looking for a direct webcast link: http://new.livestream.com/accounts/8...events/3809589.

[MooreteP]

24 hours and 6 more inches of snow later....One of the best Suffield Shakedowns ever.

Thanks to the crew, especially Linda, Steve, Mark, Eric, and our new favorite DJ Massey from 3718 for improvising and providing an invaluable experience at T minus 3 days and counting.
The 5:00 minute matches and filler line queue provided for more time behind the glass than a team could hope for.

Standout Robots included the Gaelhawks (with a Robot worthy of the Talon name), Sachem Aftershock (we miss them in New England), Uberbots (coolest, quickest four stacker), DiscoTechs (tall stacks with containers), and Apple Pi (the swerve never dies). I could list more, but I am running out of parentheses.

The unique drivetrain from Rosie is worth checking out if you meet them at your competition. RoboSquad once again showed how important good drivers are. The Who'cCTEKS proved the adage that when the going gets weird, the weird turn pro. I hope they can polish their design. Panther Project brought the most polished Robot with the highest Center of Gravity ).

I think our FIRST community owes Team 230, the Gaelhawks, a debt of gratitude for arranging their excellent three camera webcast. It is archived and will show many teams what to expect in their competitions.

Finally, Team 176, Aces High, a National Champion and perennial contender, for hosting this event. They do this year after year.
For all of us mentors and parents who have made the "mistake" of touching the inspirational vortex that is FIRST, the time and effort they put in to providing teams with this opportunity cannot be overstated.