2008 Microsoft Seattle Regional

[dtengineering]

After nine regionals in five years this was my first time at a "small" regional, and I really liked it.

The teams I know from the GTR keep telling us that we should try going to Waterloo to experience a smaller regional because it is so different -- not necessarily better, just different -- from the big hockey-rink sized events. Now I know what they are talking about.

It was especially great to have a chance to see teams for the second time, play with some teams we didn't get to play with in Portland, and most importantly, see people that we saw in Portland again.

The venue was fabulous! Actually having nice carpeted spaces with tables... away from the deafening noise of the playing field... what a treat when trying to work out software glitches in hybrid mode.

Thanks to all our alliance partners, and apologies to those who we let down due to electrical problems on Friday afternoon. When we finally found the problem it was embarssingly simple... as most loose connection type problems turn out to be in hindsight. Special thanks however, to Kevin, Deb, everyone at FIRST WA, and the many many volunteers for putting this event together. What an incredible achievement! I know this will be remembered as a very special regional by our team, and personally it will always be very special to me.

Jason

P.S. Thankfully Easter weekend (and the corresponding cross-border shoppers) won't co-incide with this event next year! See attached photo...

EDIT: While I'm attaching photos... a big thanks to the USAF for the team social, airshow, and robot demonstrations. I want to the the Skunk's scouting sheet on this baby... "poor lapper... barely knocks the balls down... can't hurdle worth a darn... just saves lives" Oh, yeah... and stay away from the shotgun.