10 May 2023
Events and initiatives Public school life
Public school students across the state are testing their skills in design, engineering, fitness and teamwork as part of an innovative competition.
The Pedal Prix Series is underway for 2023, with a raft of our schools competing.
Pinjarra Senior High School’s Mosquito Racing Team.
The WA Human Powered Vehicle Association (WAHPVA) runs the series, which sees teams racing recumbent tricycles around a closed circuit, attempting to complete as many laps as possible within the time limit.
This year, the series boasts 41 vehicles across 21 teams, with eight of the teams representing WA public schools from across the metropolitan area, the South West and the Great Southern.
It’s the third year of competition for Pinjarra Senior High School’s Mosquito Racing Team.
One of the Pinjarra trikes recorded the fastest lap in the category in the first race on Sunday 7 May.
Competing at Pedal Prix is a major activity for the school’s science club, who do a lot of work in preparation for the event. The bulk of this preparation is on vehicle maintenance, with each trike receiving a full service.
They also work on their fitness, practicing what to do in the event of a trike rollover, as well as discussing and practicing good food and hydration habits.
Pinjarra Senior High School Science Teacher Matthew Crock has been a coordinator for the team since 2021 and champions the competition and what it means to the students.
Pinjarra Senior High School’s Mosquito Racing Team before the race.
“I think the Pedal Prix series represents one of the most valuable learning opportunities that we offer to our students,” Mr Crock said. “The kids are challenged to develop the full range of STEM skills, from engineering and design through to teamwork and communication. Most importantly, they have tons of fun doing it.”
The Mosquito Racing Team have their sights on the next WA Pedal Prix event scheduled for 18 June in Bunbury. They also hope to compete in the national competition, with events in Busselton in July and in Murray Bridge, South Australia in August next year.
Sunday’s event also saw team entries from Warwick Senior High School, Duncraig Senior High School, Newton Moore Senior High School, Gnowangerup District High School, Waroona District High School, Churchlands Senior High School, and Perth Modern School. An alumni team from Warwick Senior High School is also participating this year as a community team entry.