The Mousetrap Car Challenge!
1. You will be given a mousetrap car kit and a box of extra equipment. You cannot bring your own car. You will build one on site.
2. Your total score will be based on average speed and overall distance. Specifically, your score will be computed using the formula:
Where t is the amount of time (in seconds) that it takes your vehicle to travel the first 20 feet, d is the overall distance your vehicle travels (in feet) and the Artie bonus is a 10 point bonus if you hit the stuffed Artie approximately 50 from the starting point. (note, t and d should be italicized.
3. Your vehicle will straddle a track of wood approximately 1-2 inches wide (see picture below) to keep it heading forward.
4. In case of a tie, there will be an extra run for each of the tied teams to determine the winner. 
5. You must launch your vehicle hands-free. To begin each run you will set the spring on your vehicle and place it on the track behind the starting gate (see image below).
6. You will have two chances to run the track, but you must be ready when your team is called. Any false starts will count as a run.
7. The name of the school who made the car must be visible on the car somewhere.
8. You get to take your car home!
Check out online websites to learn more on how to make a mousetrap car run fast!