It takes a village to race a solar car. Behind the apparent engineering challenges, the project also demands a well-oiled team to support it. This year, I have seen the team step up in every way to meet this challenge. It is inspiring to see brand new members gain confidence and the desire to take on larger roles, individuals pushing themselves outside their comfort zone, the work ethic and self-drive of many, softer-voiced people speaking in front of large crowds, the new valuable connections made with industry professionals, and the consistency and valuable mentorship from our veteran members. The cohesive teamwork is a testament to the growth of the team all year long. We are nowhere near the finish line, but regardless of the race result, every single member on the team is walking away from this season with invaluable personal growth.
The team packs up the trailer for the last time!
Back Row (left to right): Eric Nguyen (10), Maya Pena (12), Sukhman Kungara (9), Timothy Jou (10), Lucien Freemesser (11)
Middle Row (left to right): Alain Semet (mentor), Opal Heltzel (11), Alexis Lee (11), Hagen Rankin (10), Hailin Truman (11), Scott McComb (supervisor)
Front Row (left to right): Quinton Pho (11), Abby Jawili (10), Eliada Tran (9), Lovie Sia (9)
With that being said, the team officially sent off Jimmy, Alain [mentor], and his wife Marva Semet last Tuesday for a safe trailering journey from Seattle, Washington to Fort Worth, Texas. The team was filled with emotions as we packed up the RAHS Green Energy Trailer for the very last time. There was a sliver of sadness with the realization that the end of this journey is near, but also a feeling of excitement and celebration to be able to demonstrate the year’s worth of hard work at the race very soon.
The team loads Jimmy onto the trailer for the last time!
Jimmy departed Seattle on Thursday, July 7 2022. This five-day trip will make stops in Boise, Idaho; Rock Springs, Wyoming; Grand Island, Nebraska. Alain and Marva will also make a notable stop in Grand Island to observe the American Solar Challenge (the collegiate level of solar car racing in America, to learn about how we can take our team to the next level in the coming future. Then one last stop in Wichita, Kansas before arriving in Fort Worth, Texas late evening on Monday, 11 July 2022. Meanwhile, the rest of the travel team will depart Seattle on Tuesday, 12 July 2022 to meet up with the car for the race.
A 2,230+ mile journey from Seattle, Washington to Fort Worth, Texas
To our supporters, sponsors, and families: We are thankful for a year of support. We would not be able to experience and accomplish all that we do without you.
To our seniors: Thank you for being role models to the team. Your experience, encouragement, and leadership will pave the way for members to follow.
To the members supporting from Seattle: You are an instrumental part of the team. Thank you for your continued engagement all year long; you deserve recognition in the team’s success.
As the Solar Car Challenge approaches, we hope you can help cheer us on! Racing officially starts on Sunday, July 17 2022 0750 (MDT). We will be sharing the Solar Car Challenge race live stream on all platforms when it becomes available. Subscribe to the team blog and social media platforms for daily updates.