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Over 175 Students Compete in 2025 “Journey Through Time” Remote Control Car Challenge at Sarasota’s Fab Lab

| Suncoast Post Staff |

The Suncoast Science Center/Faulhaber Fab Lab (Fab Lab) marked a milestone year with its 10th annual Remote Control Custom Car Open (RC Car) competition, held April 12, 2025. This year’s high-energy event, themed “Journey Through Time,” welcomed more than 175 young innovators from kindergarten through 8th grade for a fun and educational STEAM-powered showdown.

A total of 65 student teams spent two months designing and customizing remote control cars using Fab Lab’s state-of-the-art makerspace tools, including 3D printers, laser cutters, and vinyl cutters. Participants showcased creativity and technical skill in one of five imaginative design categories: Prehistoric Prestige, Ancient Artistry, Empire Excellence, Iron Innovator, and Tech Titan.

Remote control car 3
80s arcade-themed car gets air after zooming off drawbridge ramp.

On race day, competitors took to two unique tracks—one drag strip celebrating 10 years of RC Car history and an obstacle course traveling through iconic time periods. Teams raced for top honors, including scholarships, cash prizes, and custom-made trophies.

Middle school homeschool team Zero to Lego in 3.5 (Joshua Yannucciello and Casey Jacques) emerged as the 2025 RC Car Grand Champions, taking top honors in both racing and design for their standout innovation.

remote control line up
Cars lined up before the first race.

The event also shone a spotlight on the 2025 RC Car Executive Committee, a student-led team of 15 high school volunteers who brought the competition to life. From selecting the theme and leading workshops to designing the tracks and awards, these student leaders developed valuable technical, leadership, and mentorship skills.

Winners of the Design Competition received gift certificates courtesy of the Sarasota Art Museum, recognizing their creativity and presentation skills.

Team competition
Team Speed Queens show off their car at the Design Competition.

This annual event was made possible by support from community partners including the Gulf Coast Community Foundation Betty Jane Helle Endowment Fund, Steinwachs Family Foundation, Sarasota Art Museum/Ringling College of Art + Design, Sunset Automotive Group, Forza Wealth Management, Publix Super Markets Charities, and Bill Wagy Productions.

The RC Car Open continues to be a beloved Fab Lab tradition, blending hands-on learning with real-world STEAM applications and sparking inspiration in the next generation of problem solvers and innovators.

Committee
The 2025 RC Car Executive Committee and support volunteers pose with volcano obstacle after the big event.

For a full list of winners and to view the event photo gallery, visit https://suncoastscience.org/rc-car. Learn more about the Fab Lab’s year-round youth programs at https://suncoastscience.org.

Feature Photo: 2025 Grand Champion winner, Zero to Lego in 3.5.

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