THE Grantleigh Schools Green Streak team will be jetting off to Singapore next week to take part in the world finals of the Formula One in Schools competition.
After winning the national competition earlier this year, the seven pupils will represent not only South Africa, but will be the only team competing from Africa.
In the F1 in Schools challenge, teams have to design and manufacture a lightweight, aerodynamic miniature F1 car out of foam.
The car is raced on a 20m track and propelled by a CO2 canister.
After receiving the news for the go-ahead, the team had only one month to prepare for the nine-day trip abroad.
A few subtle modifications were made to the car to improve mobility and speed.
While attending a test run at the Durban University of Technology, the team bettered the national record with their newly designed car that travelled 20m in 1.04 seconds.
‘We have had a lot of work to do in preparation for the world finals,’ said team leader Hilton Hoffmann.
‘Without giving too much away, I would like to say that our times look very promising.’
Headmaster Shaun McMurtry said, ‘Although there has been limited assistance, the pupils have been at the forefront of the project since the beginning.’
Thanks to Curro, parents and various other organisations, the team has secured generous sponsorship towards their Singapore trip, but is still in need of further support.
For more information visit their website www.greenstreak.co.za or find them on Facebook – Green Streak
