Crystal Lake Robotics to host annual Tech Challenge Feb. 3

The Crystal Lake Robotics's fourth annual FIRST Tech Challenge Crystal Lake League Championship will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 3, at McHenry County College, 8900 Route 14 in Crystal Lake.

The championship will feature 32 high school robotics teams from across Northern Illinois, including communities such as Barrington, Elgin, Aurora, Rockford and Crystal Lake. This is the final regular season competition of the season.

Throughout the day, two teams of two robots will face off in this year's game challenge, "Relic Recovery," using robots they designed, built and programmed. In addition, teams will compete for judged awards in categories such as innovative design and community involvement with the hopes of earning a bid to the Illinois State Championship later in February.

Admission is free. Visit clrobotics.org/leaguechampionship/.

The competition is once again being organized by Crystal Lake Robotics, a nonprofit organization that seeks to further student interest in science, technology, engineer and math (STEM) in McHenry County. Crystal Lake Robotics is seeking volunteers and sponsors for the tournament.

First Tech Challenge is one of a family of programs offered by FIRST that is designed to inspire youth to pursue education and career opportunities in STEM while building self-confidence, knowledge and life skills.

For more information about volunteering or sponsoring the event, go to

clrobotics.org/leaguechampionship/. For more information about FTC or other programs, offered by FIRST, go to www.firstinspires.org.