F1 in Schools competition starts

The first competition in the F1 in Schools series, hosted by education solutions provider Sangari SA based in Midrand, was recently held at Sci-Bono Discovery Centre.

Fourways High’s Mercury Team girls team won the competition and second place went to Team Wild Hogs also from Fourways High. A total of 10 teams competed, namely Rip and Ride from Jabulani Technical High School in Soweto, F1 Explorers Team, Group6 Lab, Innovative F1 Mechanics, Lama F1 Team from Aurora Girls High School in Soweto, Team Tripple Infinities, Scintilla and Team Ostentatious Assassins from Barnard Molokoane Comprehensive School in Parys.

One of the judges, Gary Formato of GTC Africa, who is also a Formula One presenter on SuperSport, said the level of design and technology shown by pupils was of an exceptional standard. He added, “The quality and work that went into the design and production of the model F1 cars was impressive. Their processes follow the same as Formula One designers.”

F1 in Schools programme manager at Sangari South Africa, Pieter du Plessis said monthly competitions are planned where teams will compete on a league basis. This will culminate in the national’s race next year where the winning team will represent South Africa at the world championships.

He stressed that registrations for schools are still open and teams that want to participate in the regional competition, can register their team and seek sponsorship to compete.

“The programme develops a true entrepreneurial spirit in students. They are required to prepare a business plan, do research and build links with industry to gain sponsorship. Students gain first-hand experience in marketing and accounting, needing to provide a complete portfolio as part of the competition,” he said.

The competition is open to all pupils between the ages of 11 and 18 and schools wishing to enter the competition can still do so.

Details: register@f1inschools.co.za; www.sangarisa.co.za