Olentangy robotics team advances to world championship

DELAWARE, Ohio (WSYX) — Team 4611, better known as Ozone Robotics from the Olentangy Local School District, has once again earned a place a the "FIRST Robotics World Championship" for the third time in four years. The team clinched their place after winning the FIRST Robotics Finger Lakes Regional on March 15. The team is hard at work preparing for the competition.

"We are working hard refining code and creating better subsystems, as well as scouting other teams who we will be competing alongside," said George N., a Junior on the Build Team.

Comprised of students from all four Olentangy high schools, Ozone Robotics is currently ranked #1 in Ohio and among the top 50 teams worldwide. Beyond competing, the team also mentors three middle school robotics teams and two elementary school LEGO robotics teams, all of which recently found success at their own state championships.

“Ozone really helped me shape my path and goals. Before joining, I thought I wanted to go into medicine. After joining robotics, I found my true passion in programming.”
- Akshaj K, Junior, Programming Team

"Our goal at Ozone is to give every student an opportunity to find their passion through robotics. Giving them the opportunity and the skills necessary for success is what sets us apart from other clubs and teams. While our focus is on succeeding as a team, we also allow students to build and refine skills for their future careers and lives."
- Max Nicholson, Junior, Business Team Lead said.

Since the January 4 season kickoff, the team has been designing and fine-tuning their competition robot, affectionately named "Trident", as part of this year’s FIRST Robotics REEFSCAPE challenge.

Before heading to Houston for the World Championship on April 16–19, Ozone Robotics will also compete in the Buckeye Regional in Cleveland from April 2–5, facing off against powerhouse teams from Worthington, Upper Arlington, and New Albany.

Logistics for a cross-country competition are no small task—planning for robot transport, spare parts, and backup mechanisms are all part of the challenge. All of the travel and time with their teammates presents a unique opportunity to not only create friendships but to compete alongside teams from countries like China and Israel.

“Robotics isn't just a club, it's a community—striving to create the best future for humanity through innovation, engineering, technology, and design.”
— Ethan Z., Sophomore, Build Team

"Ozone really helped me become more confident as a girl in STEM, and I've met some of my best friends on the team from all around the district," added Pranathi I, a Junior on the Programming Team

At last year’s World Championship, Ozone finished as finalists in the Johnson Division, placing them among the top 64 teams globally. This year, they’re aiming even higher.

The team is currently fundraising for their journey to Houston. To learn more or support their efforts, visit ozonerobotics.org.