The Wayland First Robotics team (#6090) Saturday took first place at the state tournament at Saginaw Valley State University.

The local group of students and mentors therefore have qualified for the national competition in Houston later this year.

Not only was #6090 part of the highest score at this event, but it also broke the world record for a qualifying match. And it was first in the Ford Division of the contest.

The Wildcats “clawed” their way up Friday to fourth place from 34th place, where they started out the day. In match 38 they completed a full grid with the help of alliance partners. They made it to alliance selection becoming the third alliance captain.

One of the team members commented, “Our heads our still spinning from the day filled with matches. We are looking forward to competing in the semi finals tomorrow! Saturday)!”

The local outfit qualified for the state tourney at regionals at Grand Valley State University March 31 and April 1.

 Wayland Union Schools Assistant Superintendent for Instruction Theresa Fulk said, “So proud of our robotics program, some of the most dedicated students and mentors there are!”