2006 Waterloo Regional

[Karthik]

Well, I don't think I can really find a way to succinctly sum this past weekend. The event was fabulous, and I hope everyone enjoyed it as much as I did.

Thanks to Team 1281 for being such a solid alliance partner. You guys took a big risk in changing your robot for the eliminations rounds, thanks for trusting our gut instinct.

Team 68. It's always fun tangling with you on the feel. You're one of the toughest opponents we've faced all year long (along with 469) and I just hope you end up in Atlanta so we can be on the same side of the field.

Team 1305. You and 68 had us really scared. We did not want to face you and deal with your smart defensive play. Congrats on your 3rd EI over the past two years. That's just amazing.

Team 771. Your team is absolutely amazing. From what I saw and learned this weekend, you're Chairman's material. You played well all weekend long, constantly making improvements. Good luck next weekend.

Teams 188 & 610. Along with 771, you gave us a great run for our money. It was really fun playing against you. For anyone who plays against 188 this season, watch out. They are one of the savviest teams in FIRST when it comes to strategic play.

To everyone who was part of 1114's Chairman's award. When I joined 1114 in 2004, I never though we'd win this award. But over the years our team has grown. I'm extremely proud of the accomplishment, thanks to all who helped make it happen.

Now, to clarify what happened in the finals. During Match 1, 1114 & 1503 had the worst run of bad luck. 1503 had a near dead battery from the outset, and 1114's launcher and elevator stopped working after autonomous mode. Basically we had to cling to the 40-7 lead we took in autonomous. It was a challenge, but we barely managed. The win was actually secured by 1114 pushing a dead 1503 up the ramp. In the 2nd match, 1114's launcher and elevator were not up to full speed as well. The problems have been diagnosed, and look for us to return back to fine form in Toronto.

This was one of the most fun weekends of my FIRST career. Thanks to everyone who made it possible.