​Robots and their builders are competing at the National Robotics Challenge this Thursday through Saturday, April 14-16, at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Marion, Ohio. Held in Marion since 2004, the robotics challenge is a national competition with 13 categories in the field of robotics that include Robo Hockey, robot maze events, Math Machines Challenge, Robot Problem Solving and other robot events. The competition is open to students in elementary, middle and high schools, and post-secondary schools. The National Robotics Challenge has been encouraging students to stretch their creativity and resourcefulness since 1986 with design challenges and exciting robotic battles. More than 900 participants from ten states are participating in this week’s events, including students from many area schools. “The focus of these events is on creating excitement for students in the field of engineering,” said Tad Douce, director of the robotic challenge events. “It is great to see teams come back each year to increase their robotic capabilities.” Douce added the competition from these talented students creates a strong foundation for technology and innovation in Ohio and the United States, and will help maintain our leadership in the critical areas of robotics. The public is welcome to see the competitive events that will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the coliseum, located at 220 E. Fairground St. in Marion. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for students accompanied by an adult. Awards will be presented at 1 p.m. Saturday at Marion Harding High School, 1500 E. Harding Highway. In addition to honoring the top teams in each of the competitive categories, one team will be the recipient of the Honda Innovation Award. Different from other competitions that focus on a functional robot, the innovation award recognizes teams that demonstrate a unique solution. Nominations for this award come from each of the event categories. For more information on the National Robotics Challenge, please visit us online at www.nationalroboticschallenge.org. View 2011 National Robotics Challenge Participants »