A whale-shaped train engine inspired by the lost city of Atlantis is taking seven Pine Island Academy eighth-grade students to the world stage, an achievement powered by creativity, precision and teamwork. This month, the team will travel to Ames, Iowa, to compete in the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals after earning first place at both regional and state competitions.
Odyssey of the Mind challenges students to solve open-ended problems through engineering, performance and teamwork. Since October, the Pine Island Academy team has developed their solution to one of this year’s challenges, “Off the Rails.”
Their performance brings Atlantis to life through a hand-built whale-shaped train vehicle. Designed with precise measurements, the vehicle operates without programming as it collects carts, navigates obstacles and transports cargo that becomes part of a final artistic creation. The presentation also features original characters, including a comedic conductor and a villain attempting to derail the journey. Every element, from the vehicle to the script, costumes and props, was created entirely by the students without outside assistance.
In addition to their first-place finishes, the team was nominated for the prestigious Omer Award, which recognizes outstanding sportsmanship, teamwork and creativity and honors those who embody the spirit of Odyssey of the Mind. The nomination reflected the team’s commitment to that spirit, as they spent the season mentoring and encouraging younger participants rather than focusing solely on their own performance.
“Ingenuity and creativity have led this team to a first place state victory. They have worked so hard all year long with one goal in mind ... getting to Worlds,” said coach Shanon Cally. “I am so proud of how hard these boys have worked to attain their goal. They can't wait to go compete on an international level.”
To help fund their trip, the team has organized community-based efforts including school concessions and selling handmade items at a local Kids Farmers Market. Upcoming events include a spirit night at Playa Bowls Beachwalk on Thursday, May 7, from 2 to 9 p.m., where customers can support the team by mentioning “PIA” at checkout, as well as the Summer Kids Fest on May 16. A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched to support competition fees, travel and lodging.
As they head to Iowa, these students represent not only their school, but a spirit of creativity, collaboration and community support.
The GoFundMe link is https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-pine-island-academy-students-compete-at-world-finals.
