Western Reserve students win bridge-building contest

YOUNGSTOWN

Western Reserve High School physics and math teacher Sean Garner credits his students’ competitive nature for their winning the Best Overall title at the eighth Mahoning Valley Miniature Bridge Building Competition.

“It’s really easy when you have students who are

motivated to perform at high levels,” Garner said.

The team of Western Reserve seniors Aleah Hughes, Ethan Grim and Tim Coler won both the Best Overall trophy and the award for strongest structure.

Their bridge held nearly 160 pounds before snapping.

“Mr. Garner taught us to use arches,” Tim explained of the winning design.

That element helps spread the weight, allowing the span to accommodate more.

Thirty-two teams from 17 area high schools competed Friday in the Chestnut Room of Youngstown State University’s Kilcawley Center.

The students used balsa wood to build a footlong bridge that would both hold weight and be aesthetically pleasing.

Read more about the competition and winners in Saturday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.