by Austin Marsman

Both of Martin’s Odyssey of the Mind teams took home hardware over the past weekend in the state finals at Thornapple Kellogg High School in Middleville.

The middle school team, coached by Hannah and Brandon Bailey as well as Superintendent Dr. David and Ben Harnish, earned first place in the structure problem. “Animal House” challenges teams to test a balsa wood structure, and center their performance around an animal that also is their structure. The division two team outscored five competitiors with a humorously creative solution.

Martin High School’s team, coached by Rosemary Andrews, along with David and Ben Harnish, was awarded second place in the vehicle problem. “Triathlon Travels” had teams create a large vehicle that must complete certain tasks. 

“We had a successful run,” said David Harnish, “I think the teams did a great job so far this year”.

Both teams will continue to try to perfect their solutions and begin fund-raising, Harnish said. Those interested in helping with costs, including local businesses, should contact Harnish at dharnish@martinpublicschools.org

The World Finals will be in late May at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa. More than 800 teams will converge on the campus for a creative extravaganza.

Martin High School team (from left) Travis Stone; Carina Andrews; Sophia Shettler; Becca Bailey; Mallory Andrews; Austin Marsman.

Martin’s Middle School team (from left) Zoie Tuinstra; Zach Bailey; Eli Dykstra; Elise Blackburn; James Blackburn; Javier Guevara.

(Photos courtesy of Dr. David Harnish)