Hi, I am the coach of the Pine Valley Middle school team of 8th graders who have worked tirelessly to make it to the World finals of Odyssey of the Mind happening in Michigan State University on May 21st 2025 and we need your support!

Our team participated in the Problem 4 for Division 2 that requires an original structure to be built from Balsa Wood and withstand a new test of strength as it holds weight until it breaks. Our team was able to achieve more than 500 lbs on a structure that weighed just over 15 grams. Picture a 15-gram (½ ounce) structure made of balsa wood holding and balancing a stack of weights while getting hit, twisted, or even broken apart. OMers create and present performances ranging from comical to extravagant where testing their structures.

Our team was 1st in their division and problem category for Norcal qualifying and for the State Tournaments.

On top of their 8th grade school and homework, our team has put in great hard work on the creative idea for this and spent over six months to prepare for this moment.

Our total cost to participate as a team is close to $10,000 including the travel, accommodation and registration for 7 kids. We are asking for your donations to offset some of our costs and to motivate the kids to keep giving their best. Any support, be it a donation or wishes is appreciated. Please also consider sharing with your friends and family.

Below is Odyssey of the Mind website for information about the tournament.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhGUUUw7PwM&t=9s

https://www.odysseyofthemind.com/

Thanks!

Ankit Malhotra