Who says math and science are boring? Certainly not the organizers of the annual Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of B.C. Popsicle Stick Bridge Building contest, who were overwhelmed by the level of participation from the Sunshine Coast last Sunday, March 20.
Seventy-four participants competed in four categories: elementary, family, secondary and pro. Competitors received a building kit to complete and each bridge had to contain 100 Popsicle sticks.
Contestants used a combination of art and science to compete for the right to say they built the strongest bridge in their respective divisions. The audience and particularly the kids were gripped for many hours as the professional engineers of B.C. thoroughly and dramatically tested 49 bridges entered in the competition.
All the divisions were very competitive, with first place changing hands many times before the winner was identified. The winners and the equivalent weight the bridges withstood are as follows: elementary, Liam Watson, 204 pounds; secondary, Sean Clarke, 116 pounds; family, Shelly Paulus, 271 pounds; and open (adult), Russ Tkachuk, 379 pounds.
"This was the first time this event was held on the Sunshine Coast, and based on the outpouring of interest and participation, the event will be held annually," said local organizer Scott Tilley.
The organizers wish to thank Sechelt Mayor Darren Inkster for attending and proclaiming the event open during this Year of Science in B.C. Their thanks also go to the committed volunteers and sponsors whose generous contributions of time and resources made the event possible.
-Submitted
