Richmond Catholic school students reminisce on historic feat during NASA competition

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Students at St. Mary’s Catholic School recently went to Huntsville, Alabama to compete in NASA’s prestigious Human Exploration Rover Challenge, becoming the first middle school ever to take part in the competition.

The Monarchs came in 7th place out of 25 other high school and college teams in the remote-control rover division.

Students competed from April 11 to April 12, navigating an obstacle course over terrain that replicated other planets.

Despite initial jitters, team leader Reagan Core kept her classmates on the task at hand.

“We stayed confident and we were like, ‘You know what, we made it here and that's all that matters now,’” Core said. “It's just fun and games, obviously we have to try, but it's just fun from here.”

Months before the competition, the students designed their own remote-controlled rover, developing a STEM outreach program and inspiring their school community.

But there were some bumps along the way during the challenge.

“Our arm on our robotic arm broke, and so we could not complete the sample tasks, then there were other times where our rover flipped over and we couldn't get it back up on its wheels,” Core said.

Overall, students said they learned lessons and made lasting memories. Students also said the process inspired them to pursue future careers in math and science, including space.

“I learned a lot of problem solving and like, on the, on the moment thinking,” said middle schooler Bella Dewell.

“I liked crossing the finish line because it felt like we made it. It was a special experience,” added middle schooler Trinity Lilly.

Technology teacher Peter Tlusky called his students rock stars for all the work they did.

“Don't be afraid to step outside the box,” Tlusky said. “Get out of your comfort zone and don't be afraid to do something hard.”