Algonquin captures gold at provincial Skills Ontario LEGO Championships

Once again, students from Algonquin Road Public School took top honours at the Skills Ontario Provincial Championships on May 7, 2018 in Toronto.

Madison Huntington, Matthew Pilon, and Carson Nicklasson competed against regional champions from across the province in the Elementary LEGO Mechanical Engineering Competition.

For the competition, teams receive their challenge on site and must complete it with materials they bring to the event. Teams are judged on problem solving skills, team work, communication, and mechanical proficiency.

“Carson and I took Gold last year,” said Matthew Pilon. “I felt well prepared and comfortable going into the competition.”

Madison Huntington added: “I have been doing LEGO Robotics for years. LEGO Engineering was a new challenge for me, and I really enjoyed it.”

This year’s competitors had to build a working bascule lift bridge (two leaf bridge) with the ability to be raised and lowered by a single motor. The trio solved the task through the extensive use of linkages, drive belts and gears.

“Going in as a defending champion I was nervous,” said Carson Nicklasson. “When I saw the challenge, I knew we could do it.”

Teacher/Coach Darren Foy was thrilled at how well the team collaborated. “It was a true pleasure to work with this group of students. It was most rewarding to see them capture top honours in the province.”

“I am amazed at what our students have managed to accomplish,” said Principal Cathy Nursall. “This represents another proud moment for Algonquin Road Public School.”