The ultimate goal of our club is to prepare our car for competition! We typically attend two competitions each year. In the fall, we attend Oktobaja Fest- an exhibition race hosted by Clarkson University. In the spring, we attend an international event hosted by Baja SAE.
While events may differ between competitions, they generally follow the same pattern. Before competing in any events, we must pass a safety inspection in addition to brake check, four-wheel drive check, and engine check. Dynamic events typically include a hill climb, suspension course, maneuverability course, and acceleration. There are also presentation events that give us the opportunity to present the design and strategy behind the car. At the end of the competition, there is a four hour endurance race full of obstacles and rough terrain the car must overcome.
Through out competition, there are many possibilities for things to break. As a team, we’re expected to use our skills to complete on-site repairs. Overall, attending competition is an amazing experience that allows us to better bond as a team and create amazing memories.
Recent Competitions
Oktobajafest 2024
September 27-29, 2024
After passing safety inspection, we continued on to participate in dynamic events! Hill climb was successfully completed. However, at the next event, short track, the car rolled while making a quick turn. Due to the impact, a cv-joint cup shattered. That night, we repaired the car and continued to participate in the endurance race the next day! After completing seven laps, with a brief stop to repair a broken suspension shock, the rear-right telescoping cv-joint was seized and could not be repaired within the duration of the competition.
Baja SAE Williamsport
May 16-19, 2024
Despite braking issues caused by a failing master cylinder, we were able to problem solve and pass all safety inspections! This included the general safety inspection, engine check, four-wheel drive test, and brake check. Passing the last of these, brake check, at the end of Saturday, we were unable to complete any dynamic events. However, we did continue on to participate in the endurance race on Sunday!