School pupils have been praised for their efforts in an annual competition which encourages the development of engineering skills.
The Technology Tournament has been organised for more than 15 years by the Rotary clubs of Northallerton, Northallerton Mowbray, Richmond, Thirsk and Wensleydale. This year it was Northallerton Rotary’s turn to co-ordinate the competition.
The tournament attracted more than 160 entrants from ten schools – Barnard Castle, Bedale High, Cundall Manor, Hurworth, Northallerton, Richmond, Risedale, St Francis Xavier, Thirsk and Wensleydale, with an age range of participants from 12 to 18 in teams of four. In addition, an Army REME team of four participated as guests.
The tournament involves planning and delivering a challenging technical project that is then judged by a series of exacting criteria.
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This year the teams were required to design, build, and operate a rope bridge that could be used to carry a load across it on a model electric vehicle.
Advanced level team winners, Barnard Castle's team one
This year’s winners were: Foundation (11-14 years) – Hurworth School; Intermediate (14-16 years) – St Francis Xavier team two; Advanced (over 16) – Barnard Castle School team one. The winning trophies were presented by Richard Greenwood, Rotary district governor nominee, and book token prizes were given by Susan Rogers, Rotary assistant district governor.
Rotarian Allan Percy, who led the event, said: "All the young people involved performed brilliantly. Their energy, commitment and technical skills were tremendous and as ever we were very grateful to the REME Depot at Catterick and Royal Engineers for their support and the provision of a superb venue. More than 50 Rotarians were involved as stewards and judges on the day, which went extremely well."
Intermediate level team winners, St Francis Xavier team two, and organiser plus district governor nominee Richard Greenwood
Northallerton president Mike Holmes added: "Rotary clubs are very committed to supporting their local communities and it is particularly worthwhile to be involved with such outstanding young people.
"I am so pleased that the Technology Tournament continues to thrive, and it is great to think that our future is in the hands of such talented young individuals. The whole day was thoroughly enjoyed by all."
Organisers thanked schools for their support, the Army – particularly WO1 Chris Waddington and his commanding officer Lt Col Mike Smith, and sponsors S&K Windows of Northallerton, and the West Yorkshire Society of Architects.
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