2011 student entry from the Odyssey Academy - photo courtesy of Doug Shoemaker

St. Paul, Minnesota is the place to be on May 19, 2012 to witness teams made up of adults as well as Junior and Senior high school students in the annual Minnesota Renewable Energy Society Solar Boat Regatta. Held at the Beach House at Lake Phalen in St. Paul, this annual event gives kids and others the opportunity to get creative in a fun and educational way.

Imagine designing and building a solar-powered boat then putting it through it’s paces in speed, slalom and endurance races. This year’s regatta has three classes: student, adult and experimental/exhibition, that will compete in races as well as website design and creative design categories.

Participating teams demonstrate knowledge of science, technology, engineering and math while learning about solar electricity, wiring, motors, fluid dynamics and boat design and construction.

Check out this fun event and volunteer if you’re in the area and have some time to devote to a great cause!