The Gateway VEX Robotics teams have once again proven their skill and determination at the Kentucky State VEX Robotics Championship, with Team 8349U (Ursus) and Team 8349G (Original Geek) earning their spots at the VEX Robotics World Championship in Dallas, Texas. Their incredible performance throughout the tournament, including a state runner-up finish, has secured them a chance to compete on the world stage against the best robotics teams from across the globe.
Dominance in the Qualifying Rounds
From the very beginning, Gateway’s teams set themselves apart. 8349G (Original Geek) dominated the qualifiers, finishing as the #1-ranked team with a perfect 8-0-0 record. Not far behind, 8349U (Ursus) also went undefeated at 8-0-0, securing the #3 ranking overall. Their precise programming, engineering design, and match strategy gave them a strong position heading into alliance selections.
Meanwhile, 8349T (Trainwreck) put up a strong fight in the qualifiers, finishing 4-4-0 and ranking 23rd overall. While they didn’t advance as far in eliminations, their performance demonstrated the depth of talent within Gateway’s robotics program.
Meet the Gateway Teams
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Team 8349G – Original Geek
- Jessey Gilkey
- Brayden Cardwell
- Vincent Jeronimo
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Team 8349U – Ursus
- Katelynn Cain
- Riley Cook
- Jackson Smith
- Bradley Schmitt
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Team 8349T – Trainwreck
- Cameran Aldridge
- Braylen Newcomb
- Shamaur Hampton
- Langley Henderson
- Tan’dre Davie
- Cayden Stacey
- London Taylor Winston
A Thrilling Elimination Run
With Ursus and Original Geek forming a powerhouse alliance, the duo dominated the Round of 16, Quarterfinals, and Semifinals, securing their place in the Championship Finals. Their tactical execution and robot efficiency made them one of the most feared alliances in the tournament.
The Finals proved to be a test of endurance and strategy, as Ursus and Original Geek battled against Team 1229W (The Wet Sprockets) and 1255D (Warhawk Delta) in a best-of-three showdown. After splitting the first two matches, the decisive round came down to the wire. In a heartbreaking finish, Ursus and Original Geek fell short in the final match, finishing as State Runners-Up.
A Ticket to the World Stage
Despite the tough final loss, Ursus and Original Geek’s outstanding performance earned them an invitation to the 2025 VEX Robotics World Championship in Dallas, Texas. Competing at Worlds is the ultimate test for robotics teams, bringing together elite competitors from across the country and beyond.
For Gateway, this marks a huge achievement—not only showcasing the school’s growing robotics program but also proving that their students can compete at the highest levels of STEM-based competition. As they prepare for Dallas, Ursus and Original Geek will refine their robots, strengthen their strategies, and aim to bring home a world title.
With their talent, dedication, and drive, Gateway’s VEX Robotics teams are ready to take on the world. Stay tuned for more updates as they gear up for their journey to Dallas!
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