The ‘F1 in Schools’ team from Coláiste Rís, Sonic Predators, are ecstatic to see that the hard work they have invested in the research and preparation of their Formula 1 racing car was definitely worth it as they have successfully qualified to the Regional Finals of the ‘F1 in Schools Technology challenge.
Sonic Predators scored very well in their five-page plan and received high marks in each of the four categories. They are currently working on a 20-page portfolio that will outline all of their achievements and work and that will be presented at the regional finals.
The Qualifying Stage consisted of submitting a five-page plan on how ‘Sonic Predators’ intended to create their Formula One car. This plan showed their research and outlined their designs. They put a lot of thought into what design would be the most efficient and effective, and they have now tested variations of each car part using CAD software provided by the ‘F1 in Schools’ team.
The competition is open to secondary schools all over Ireland with the primary aim being to design, manufacture and race scale model F1 cars. It is all very exciting as the students are responsible for all aspects of the competition. They have to design and manufacture the car, gain sponsorship, advertise on social media, get uniforms, produce merchandise and so much more. All of this organising and communicating provides them with essential skills that will serve them well later in life.
The competition attracts more than 90,000 students each year and Sonic Predators are very thrilled to be amongst them. They are even more pleased to be one of the teams selected for the regional final.
This is the first year that teams from Coláiste Rís are participating in the competition and Sonic Predators intend on being very successful. Although there is no history of F1in Coláiste Rís the team is very determined on making one.
Their F1 mentor, Breege Marie Dorrian, describes the work that the team has put in up to this point: “They’re a very hardworking group of students who are putting their hearts and souls into the competition.”
‘Sonic Predators’ are looking forward to competing in the Regional Finals on March 14th in Griffith College Dublin. The team has put their heads together and are preoccupied with the design of their car, fundraising and sponsorship. They have already confirmed sponsorship for ‘Hilton Food,’ ‘Blue Alligator’ and ‘iCreate Digital Media Academy.’ This is greatly appreciated and all of these companies will get their money’s worth back as their names will be prominently advertised by Sonic Predators.
Currently the team are still searching for potential sponsors. If any local businesses are interested in sponsoring the team, their support would be greatly appreciated and they are advised to contact the team’s Marketing & Communications Manager, Morgan McLoughlin at morgan.mcloughlin@colaisteris.ie.
It’s a brilliant method of advertising your business, as well as supporting innovative and determined young people in your community.
There is a lot of excitement around the school as both Sonic Predators and Titanium Racing are gearing up for the finals. There is a healthy amount of competition between the teams which urges them to work to their optimum capacity.
Visit www.F1inschools.ie for more information on the challenge.
