New Competition Launch!

The Center for Future Innovators (CFI Robotics NFP) is excited to introduce a new addition to the URC (Ultimate Robot Championship), designed to challenge, inspire, and empower the next generation of coders and creators:URC - RoboTrials

This thrilling, mission-based event blends real-time decision making with robotics and programming, offering students a unique platform to showcase their creativity, strategy, and technical skills.

Open to ages 8 and up, URC - RoboTrials is perfect for students with Scratch programming experience and a passion for LEGO robotics.

What Is URC - RoboTrials?

Students will use a prebuilt LEGO SPIKE Prime robot to complete a variety of missions on a 4 ft x 4 ft challenge field. With limited time to practice and compete, students must code smart, drive precisely, and adjust strategies on the fly.

Competition Format:

• Ages: 8+

• Requirements:

  • Scratch programming experience required

  • LEGO SPIKE Prime or EV3 experience highly recommended

• Robot: Prebuilt LEGO SPIKE Prime (provided)

• Time Limits:

  • 15 minutes of practice on a warm-up field

  • 15 minutes on the official competition table

• Runs:

  • Multiple runs allowed during official time

  • Robot starts in home base; only touch it there

  • Touching outside home base ends the run and locks in score

  • Up to 2 entries per competitor – best score counts

• Scoring:

  • Most points wins; time is used as a tiebreaker

Awards & Recognition:

All competitors will receive:

• Certificates

• Recognition for excellence in coding, strategy, and control

• 3D printed token

The Top 6 competitors will receive:

• Trophies

• Spotlight features on the CFI Robotics website and social media

Why Compete?

URC RoboTrials is more than just a competition—it’s a growth experience designed to prepare students for future challenges in STEM, school, and life.

Benefits of Participating in URC RoboTrials:

Real-World Application of Coding Skills

Students use Scratch-based programming to run missions, building the connection between code and physical action, a core principle in robotics and engineering.

Enhanced Problem-Solving Under Pressure

With limited time and real-time mission challenges, students develop critical thinking on the spot skills that are vital in both competitive and academic environments.

Learn from Every Run

Because multiple runs are allowed, students gain instant feedback, reflect on their results, and make strategic improvements, building a growth mindset.

STEM Readiness

RoboTrials prepares students for future participation in advanced robotics programs like FIRST LEGO League, World Robot Olympiad, and other STEM competitions by simulating the pressures and processes of high-level events.

Creativity + Innovation

With suggested code blocks as a starting point, students can innovate and adapt to create their solutions, developing the creative thinking that future engineers and inventors need.

Confidence Through Competition

Success in RoboTrials builds confidence not just in robotics but in students’ ability to tackle big challenges, present their work, and compete with poise.

Inclusive and Encouraging Environment

While the challenge is individual, students participate in a community of like-minded peers, building friendships and encouraging each other in a supportive atmosphere.

Entry Fee:

• $20 per participant

• Only $5 for current CFI students

All proceeds support youth robotics programming and help expand access to STEM education through CFI’s nonprofit mission.

📆 Registration Now Open:

Spots are limited, and registration is first-come, first-served.

Sign up today and secure your place in the inaugural URC RoboTrials!