The excitement was palpable on Saturday 1st March, as 70 Irish Girl Guides gathered at Dublin City University (DCU) for the FIRST LEGO League Challenge Regional.

Fourteen teams from across Ireland demonstrated their outstanding skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through innovative projects, robot design, and teamwork. A huge congratulations to all the teams who participated and showcased their dedication, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.

After an intense and inspiring competition, The Octonaughts, a team of four Guides from Lucan Unit, emerged as this year’s Regional Champions! The Octonaughts impressed the judges with their innovative project on Sonar Technology and its impact on sperm whales.

They explored the frequencies used in sonar technology and their impacts on sperm whales. Their proposed solution involved developing sonar that reflects the clicks and echolocation from the whales, integrating this feedback into sonar technology to reduce harm.

During this competition, they showcased their outstanding research project, their connection to the FIRST LEGO League Core Values, and, of course, their skills in controlling their robot. This secured their place at the Ireland Final on Saturday, 12th April, where they will compete against top teams from across the country.

“This event is a testament to the incredible talent, passion, and commitment of our Girl Guides,” said Katie Keogh, Irish Girl Guides LEGO Representative and Mosney Unit Brownies and Guides Leader. 

“Each team has worked incredibly hard, and we are beyond proud of their achievements. We can’t wait to see The Octonaughts shine at the Ireland Final!”

Special Recognition for Other Award Winners:

  • Robot Game Award– Squashed Squids (Macalla Guides)
  • Robot Design Award– Winnie Fish (St. Brendan's Guides)
  • Innovation Project Award– Coral Creators (North Longford Senior Branch)
  • Core Values Award– Awesome Octonauts (Dilse Senior Branch)
  • Rising All-Star Award– The Gills (St. Brendan's Guides)
  • Breakthrough Award– Merlin Dolphins (St. Nicholas & Merlin Wood Guides)
  • Motivate Award– Deep Blue Divas (Mosney Guides)

A heartfelt thank you to all the participants, Leaders, mentors, partners and volunteers who made this event a success. The journey doesn’t stop here, best of luck to The Octonaughts as they continue their FIRST LEGO League Challenge adventure!

FIRST LEGO League Ireland is proudly supported by the Research Ireland Discover Programme and delivered by CreativeHUT Ireland. The programme also benefits from national sponsorship by Amazon.