WASHINGTON — A Loudoun County robotics team will soon get its award-winning robot back after it was stolen during a competition in Tennessee last week.
The 10-student team — called RoboLoco — from Loudoun County’s Academy of Science and Monroe Technology Center attended the regional FIRST Robotic Championship in Knoxville, Tennessee, Saturday. The team took home runner-up honors as well as the Judge’s Trophy and an invitation to the FIRST World Championships.
However, after the competition, someone stole the team’s SUV containing its gear, robot and trophies, reports NBC Washington.
Now the robot, vehicle and trophies have been located near Knoxville and appear to be in good condition, NBC Washington updated Tuesday.
Arrangements are being made to bring the equipment home to Loudoun County.
Last weekend, the team built new robotics using money and equipment donated from Loudoun County businesses and individuals.
When RoboLoco receives its original robotics, the team will decide which robot to use in the world competition next Wednesday, according to NBC Washington.
UPDATE: #Loudoun Robotics @Team5338 stolen robot has been found in Tenn! No word on its condition @nbcwashington pic.twitter.com/af3MwHdn2U
— Julie Carey (@JulieCareyNBC) April 14, 2015