WORKSHOP

Robo-Race Challenge – Optimize & Compete

A robotics workshop focused on optimization, friendly competition, and final project refinement, with students preparing their robots for race-day challenges and final presentations.

May 30, 2026
AGES: 8 – 17
COST: FREE
FORMAT: IN-PERSON
LOCATIONS: Atlanta, Gwinnett County, Los Angeles, Chicago, Detroit

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About this workshop

May workshop focuses on refinement and friendly competition. Beginners optimize their robots for a line-following race, fine-tuning speed, turns, and sensor placement to achieve smoother and faster runs. They add countdowns, sounds, and simple animations so their robots “announce” the start of a race or celebrate crossing the finish line, making the experience fun and engaging. Along the way, they compare strategies, share tips with teammates, and see how small code changes can lead to big performance improvements. 

Advanced learners use May to finalize their capstone builds and bring all their skills together. They test reliability under different conditions, refine how their robots handle obstacles or complete tasks, and polish both the technical and visual aspects of their designs. They also prepare for presentations by organizing their documentation, clarifying the problem their robot addresses, and practicing how to explain their design choices, challenges, and breakthroughs to an audience. This month sets the stage for a confident, well-prepared showcase in June. 

Beginners refine programs and race their robots on a competition track. 

Materials Required 

  • Laptop or tablet with SPIKE app installed 
  • LEGO SPIKE Prime kit with hub, motors, and colour sensor 
  • Competition course 

Beginner Track Learning Outcomes 

  • Optimize Robot Control 
    Learners will fine-tune speed and steering settings. 
  • Add Countdown Displays 
    Students will program 5-to-1 countdowns on the LED matrix. 
  • Incorporate Sounds 
    Learners will add beeps or custom sounds to signal race start. 
  • Balance Speed and Accuracy 
    Students will learn trade-offs between speed and control. 

Compete in Robo-Race 
Learners will participate in a timed competition. 

Advanced learners finalize capstone projects, ensuring readiness for showcase. 

Materials Required 

  • LEGO SPIKE Prime kits 
  • Laptop or tablet with SPIKE app installed 
  • Testing tracks and notes 

Advanced Track Learning Outcomes 

  • Complete Project Builds 
    Students will finalize fully functional prototypes. 
  • Systematically Test Robots 
    Learners will run trials to identify and solve issues. 
  • Optimize Stability and Efficiency 
    Students will refine performance for reliability. 
  • Prepare Documentation 
    Learners will summarize designs, tests, and solutions. 

Ensure Showcase Readiness 
Students will make final preparations for July presentations. 

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