And they're off!

The green flag dropped at 9 AM as three solar cars rayced away from the starting line. Despite starting last of the three teams, Minnesota quickly found the lead and maintained it all day. The team was extremely happy with the outcome of the day and hopes to be able to keep it up tomorrow. Minnesota was the first official team to complete their qualifying laps assuring them a spot in North American Solar Challenge. Thanks to all for their comments, the really keep the team going.

May 19, 2005

Comments:

 Janet Thompson
Ben Thompson!!! What have you done to my tent??????? Yo Ma Ma

Posted by: Janet Thompson | May 19, 2005 at 07:39 AM

 Rachael
hope the little car goes really really fast! and don't worry about getting pulled over ~ the officer probably couldn't figure out how to get to you on the inside of the car, anyhow. yay for the geek squad and their tiny sun-juiced vehicle!

Posted by: Rachael | May 19, 2005 at 12:32 PM

 Rachael
whoah . . . posted the last comment before my computer (slow dial-up out in the sticks of wisconsin) loaded the pics . . . nice hat, pete! are you solar car racing or fly fishing? hope it keeps the harmful uv rays off your solar panel ;). bring some of the sun home with you! we need it!

Posted by: Rachael | May 19, 2005 at 12:42 PM

 Fishy 4x
I heard Wanner is a terrible driver and should not be allowed behind the wheel.

Good luck team!

Fishy 4x

Posted by: Fishy 4x | May 19, 2005 at 01:03 PM

 Laurie Miller
Way to go, guys! The car is looking fabulous. Nice rollbar decor.

It's kind of funny that Dan Eberle looks exactly the same.

Posted by: Laurie Miller | May 19, 2005 at 02:55 PM

 Laurie Miller
Heh, several people have buttonholed me today to ask how you're doing. It's easy to forget the sheer number of people who know about the UofM solar car team and are excited about the race.

Posted by: Laurie Miller | May 19, 2005 at 03:12 PM

 Josh Sinykin
The array looks amazing guys, really nice job. Kick some Solar Butt!

Posted by: Josh Sinykin | May 19, 2005 at 03:18 PM

 Brad Schulz
Hey Team Leaders...complain to the Formula Sun Web people...No updates all day! Your Solar fans are trying to waste time at work, and its really difficult if there's nothing to see. If they don't post something soon I might just have to get a life! ;-)

Wanner, Al and Co....Keep your foot in it...don't listen to those pesky strategy people.

Posted by: Brad Schulz | May 19, 2005 at 03:42 PM

 caromonichelle
Hey Team! All of us back here in MN are rooting for you!!! Don't let the rain dampen your spirits! Good luck and God speed!

Posted by: caromonichelle | May 19, 2005 at 08:32 PM

 Ida Carlin
Ben--you are our hero--I'm impressed with the spelling of your peers. Love, Ida

Posted by: Ida Carlin | May 19, 2005 at 08:39 PM

 Sara Whipple
I am glad to know that Tom is being caffeinated. It's in everyone's best interest. Good Luck!

Posted by: Sara Whipple | May 19, 2005 at 10:26 PM

 Laurie Huotari
Aaron - what are you looking at in this picture? It sounds like the team is doing really well. Keep it up! By the way - your photographer is excellent.

Posted by: Laurie Huotari | May 20, 2005 at 09:34 AM