MEDIA ADVISORY, March 2, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) --
WHAT: Custom-built robots in a fast-paced competition of 1,500 teens from around the south this weekend. Robots feature pneumatic arms, run on unique computer programs designed by students and their mentors and showcase creativity, determination and innovative robotic design, making science hip and relevant. It's the third annual FIRST Robotics Competition Peachtree Regional. (FIRST = For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) WHEN: Friday, March 4 -- 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Saturday, March 5 -- 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Practice sessions: Thurs, March 3 -- 8:00 am - 6:00 pm WHERE: Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway in Duluth www.gwinnettcenter.com WHY: Our future may lie in the next generation of scientists and inventors. Since 1989, the FIRST Robotics Competition provides bright, high-tech teens with real life challenges to test their skills in strategy, design, team work, meeting tight deadlines and other benefits that inspire them to pursue careers in science, technology and engineering. VISUALS: Get ready for the same level of enthusiasm you would see at a football game. Every robot is unique, made from the same kit of 800+ parts sent to each team exactly six weeks ago. This year's challenge requires robots to move and stack 3-D triangles (tetrahedrons) while avoiding competing robots who are working just as feverishly to complete their tasks as the clock ticks down. The event is FREE and the public is welcome. Last year, 2,000 spectators cheered on their teams from the stands. A larger crowd of 2,500 or more is expected this year. For details, visit www.peachtreeregional.org or www.usfirst.org