BFHS robotics team competes in Western Canada Regional

Bonners Ferry High School FIRST Robotics Team 2130 Alpha+ recently returned from Calgary, Alberta after competing in the Western Canada Regional. The trip was amazingly fun for everyone involved.This year teams from Canada, the United States, Australia, Mexico and Israel competed. This diversity was furthered by the fact that there were multiple languages being spoken at the event. This was not an obstacle as all team members made international friendships.

At the Opening Ceremonies, each country’s National Anthem was sung by team representatives. Alpha+ team member, Rayan Naylor, accompanied by four other US team members, sang the Star Spangled Banner.

The team’s robot, Skookum, performed exceptionally, keeping the team in the top ten for most of the qualification matches. Alpha+ finished the qualification matches in 14th place. During the alliance selection, Alpha+ was chosen by the sixth alliance, Team 5078 ROBO-KAOS, along with Team 6106 URL FRC. The alliance performed well, but unfortunately did not make it past the quarterfinals.

Alpha+ was awarded the Industrial Design Award sponsored by General Motors for the effectiveness and functionality of the robot design. Team member Malachi Mooney-Rivkin was named a Dean’s List Award Finalist for his outstanding dedication to the team and for furthering the mission of FIRST. Malachi went on to represent Alpha+ at the World Championship in St. Louis.

The team also took a side trip to the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology in Drumheller, BC., home to a remarkable collection of fossils and dinosaur skeletons. The route home went through Banff and Kootenay Parks. The team enjoyed the stunning scenery and outstanding geological features.

Alpha+ would like to thank our wonderful community for its ongoing support and looks forward to representing Badger pride yet again at next year’s competition!