Future Robot Control System Update
July 16, 2024
Run for the Robots uniquely blends international FIRST® Tech Challenge competition with Kentucky’s renowned equestrian culture, providing a one-of-a-kind backdrop for teams. The venue itself—Alltech Arena—is steeped in equine history, and we’re infusing the event with horse-themed activities and traditions. We’re excited to combine the beauty of the Bluegrass state with the excitement of a high-level robotics event!
This event features two divisions named after two of the most famous racehorses in history: Secretariat and Man o’ War.
Man o’ War was a legendary American racehorse whose career left an indelible mark on the sport. He began racing in 1919 and quickly gained attention for his incredible speed and dominance on the track. Over the course of his brief but brilliant career, he won 20 of 21 races, with his only loss coming in the Sanford Memorial due to a poor start. His victories were often overwhelming—he regularly defeated his opponents by large margins, once winning by an astonishing 100 lengths. In 1920, he capped off his career by defeating Sir Barton, the first Triple Crown winner. He is a national icon and earned a lasting reputation as one of the greatest racehorses of all time.
Secretariat quickly became one of the most iconic figures in horse racing history. In 1973, Secretariat won the Triple Crown, a feat that hadn’t been achieved in 25 years. He began with a record-breaking performance in the Kentucky Derby, running each quarter-mile faster than the one before and finishing in 1:59 2/5—a record that still stands. In the Preakness Stakes, he made a dramatic move from last to first and ran the race in what was later recognized as a record time of 1:53. His most unforgettable performance came in the Belmont Stakes, where he blew away the field and won by an astonishing 31 lengths, finishing the 1.5-mile race in 2:24—a world record for that distance on dirt that has never been broken. Even decades later, Secretariat remains a symbol of speed, strength, and the peak of athletic achievement in horse racing.
This isn’t just another robotics tournament—it’s a FIRST Tech Challenge Premier Event, and with that title comes a level of production, competition, and celebration. Run for the Robots captures the same pageantry and prestige that defines Kentucky’s world-famous Derby season. Just as the races honor champions like Secretariat and Man o’ War, this event honors the best in youth innovation and collaboration. It’s a celebration of excellence—from the thunder of hooves to the whir of motors—wrapped in the traditions of the Bluegrass State and delivered with the global spirit of FIRST®.
Beyond the competition, the event is designed for connection and celebration. We will have a team social, all FIRST programs with interactive displays in the North Hall, local industry partners on display, and universities with booths around the concourse. The event also features an elaborate Behind the Scenes experience, where student ambassadors guide community leaders through the pits, introduce them to teams, and even coach them through driving robots in special match play on the championship field. And it may be the only event where you’ll find live horses inside the venue—ready for photo ops, snuggles, and surprise moments. And when you need a moment of calm, just step outside—every exit opens to sweeping pastures and the quiet beauty of horses grazing in the fields that surround the arena.
Robots Steal the Show
While the equestrian culture will certainly have its place, the robots and teams are the main event. This competition will feature traditional gameplay with a few adjustments in alliance selection and judging.
Gameplay will remain consistent with what teams have experienced throughout the season, with a few added samples, the same as at the FIRST® Championship. Teams will compete in 10 qualification matches, and alliances will be chosen for playoffs within each division. Scouting will be key, as alliance selections will have a time limit, creating an exciting race to secure the best alliance partner. Each alliance will consist of two robots, but in the event of a malfunction, backup robots will be ready to step in. Alternate bots will be selected in order of ranking and only if needed, and only after the first round of playoffs.
For judging, teams will submit 5-minute presentation videos and portfolios in advance. While portfolios are optional, they are strongly encouraged, as a second panel of judges will review them. Award interviews will take place in the pits, so keep an eye out for judges in orange vests—when they approach, they’ll be conducting interviews for awards!
Each division will feature a full set of awards, except for the Inspire Award, which will be awarded event-wide to the top three teams – Inspire Event 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards. The winning robot alliances from each division will face off in a thrilling finals match on the championship field, with all the pageantry and excitement you’d expect at the Derby to crown the overall winning alliance.
Welcoming the World to Kentucky
At KY FIRST Robotics, we are incredibly proud to welcome teams from across the globe to the heart of the Bluegrass. Hosting Run for the Robots is more than putting on a world-class robotics event—it’s about sharing the beauty, culture, and hospitality that define Central Kentucky.
We want every team to leave not just with unforgettable memories of competition, but with a genuine connection to this place we call home. From rolling pastures dotted with horses to rich traditions in innovation, education, and community—Kentucky offers more than meets the eye. Our hope is that while you're here, you’ll experience the warmth of our people, the pride of our heritage, and the exciting opportunities that exist in this region for students, families, and future leaders.
This event is a celebration of what’s possible when FIRST values meet Kentucky spirit. We can’t wait to see you in the arena—and out in the beauty of the Bluegrass.
Written by the Run the Robots Premier Event Organizers and FIRST Tech Challenge staff