**FIRST EMAIL**/Championship Robot Removal Requests

[Mark McLeod]

Greetings Teams:

Congratulations on going to the Championship. Since there are certain issues that may come up immediately after the Championship event we here at FIRST are allowing teams to request removal of the their robots from the event. Please note that FedEx has given a donation to ship the robots back to the organization/school for the teams that are competing in the Championship event. Please keep in mind that it may take up to 3 (three) weeks to have your robot shipped back to your organization/school. If your team needs to have the robot back as soon as the event is over then you may make the request for removal from the event. Please follow the instructions below.

- Removal requests will be considered for a team if they need their robot immediately after the Championship event.
- Teams requesting an exception must contact Team Support via frcteams@usfirst.org.
- The exception application process must be completed by April 8, 2009 to allow for processing. The request must be clear and contain the following:

- Subject line: "Robot Removal, “Championship Event - Team XXXX (your team #)";
- Reason for the rule variation;
- Description of the vehicle you will use to transport your robot and crate.

Upon the receiving of this information, FIRST will, in good faith, consider your request. The Director of Robotics will review each case and will provide a written response. This decision will be final.
If permission is granted, you will have to present the written allowance to the Event Manager on the first day of the Championship event so a plan can be in place. FIRST will notify the Event Manager of the
exception so he/she will already be aware of the situation. The Pit Administration Supervisor can locate him/her for you. If you do receive permission to remove the robot from the Championship please be aware of the following:

- The drayage company will neither help nor provide equipment for the removal, and teams will not be permitted to use the loading dock and no pallet jacks available to go out the front.
- You may have to load out at an earlier or later time than may be convenient.
- You will also be responsible for dismantling and removing your robot crate. Do not expect to receive assistance in those processes.
- A $250 clean-up fee will be assessed for any crates left behind.

Please remember that all teams taking their robot home must stop by Pit Administration prior to leaving the building with their robot so they can be officially "checked out" by FIRST staff. Please do not hesitate to contact us 1-800-871-8326 if you have any further questions.

Have a Great time at the Championship and Good Luck!

FRC Team Support