Achievers

Two All Saints Episcopal School Odyssey of the Mind teams competed in the World Finals that were held May 31-June 3 at the University of Maryland.

Both teams advanced from regional and state competitions to represent Texas. Odyssey of the Mind is an international educational program that provides creative problem-solving opportunities for students from kindergarten through college.

The two teams competed in Division II Problems titled “Classics — The Wonderful Muses” and “Odyssey Road Rally.” They competed against teams from 50 states and 19 other countries including Poland, Japan, Singapore and Australia.

The “Wonderful Muses” team coached by Cindy Culwell, included Abbey Russell (sixth), Emily Starr (fifth), Zane Liston (fifth), Caroline Harbour (sixth), Blake Bengtson (fifth), and Alex Lisso (sixth). This was the second time for this team to compete in the world competition. The team’s problem was to create and present an original performance that included one of the nine Greek muses.

The Muse had to inspire two people during the performance and the team had to include two original works of art. “The Wonderful Muses” team took eighth place with their magical performance.

The “Road Rally” team coached by Janet and Britt Thompson, consisted of Abbie Nourse (fourth), Faizon Kahn (sixth), Austin Martin (sixth), Betsy McKinney (fifth), Zane Thompson (fifth), Megan Daviau (sixth), and Kevin McKain (sixth). This was this new team’s first time at the world competition.

The team’s problem was to design, build and operate an original vehicle, which they drove in a road rally that had four checkpoints. At each checkpoint, the vehicle competed in a sports-related event.

Although their car malfunctioned, the All Saints “Road Rally” team was still able to rank well because of their creativity with the mechanical mechanisms on the vehicle, costuming and design.

The All Saints Episcopal School Odyssey of the Mind “Road Rally” team
(Courtesy Photo)