Bot Brawl:Tiny robots clash in Hamilton

This is one of three “Bot Brawl” events held each year. These robots weigh a maximum of 3 pounds, but other competitions across Ontario feature robots weighing up to 150 pounds.

Today, competitors gathered at the RoboDrome Centre for Robotics Excellence on MacNab Street in Hamilton.

Tyler Beadle, the chair of Bot Brawl Events, says there’s something for everyone at these competitions.

Don Varrin, from Burlington, participates in these events to learn new skills. His part-time education costs him over two thousand dollars a year.

Anthony Pereira, a student at the Rochester Institute of Technology in New York, says most competitions are 4 to 5 hours away, so he jumped at the chance to compete in Hamilton, closer to home.

Some competitors used materials found around the house, like a pizza box, but it was no match for its opponent—who quickly cut it apart with a saw.

Today’s event will be decided in a knockout-style tournament.  The winner will receive $100 in gift cards and serious bragging rights going to the winner.