Expanding the possibilities and testing the limits of science took front and center for Thomas County Central High School’s Science Olympiad team.

The team competed recently in a Science Olympiad Tournament held at Georgia Perimeter College in Clarkston. Students placed/medaled in several events.

“The Science Olympiad competition was an exciting and fun experience for me,” participant Eli Koswci said. “I am very proud of the hard work and dedication put in by my other team members.”

First place medals were awarded to Huntley Rodgers and Justin Knapp in “Bungee Drop;” Noah Harris and C'lee Kornegay in “Mission Possible;” and, Emily Kornegay and Eli Koswci in “It's About Time.”

Students who received fourth place medals were: C'lee Kornegay and Erin Alford in “Air Trajectory,” and C'lee Kornegay and Huntley Rodgers in “Bridge Building.”

Ribbon winners included: Noah Harris and C'lee Kornegay in “Scrambler;” Eli Koswci and Justin Knapp in “Fossils;” Faythe Choate, C'lee Kornegay and Emily Kornegay in “Experimental Design;” Noah Harris and Justin Knapp in “Protein Modeling;” and Emily Kornegay and Sierra Stephens in “Compound Machines.”

Science Olympiad allows TCCHS students the chance to compete with students across the state in a variety of events (23 different ones), according to advisor Laura Kornegay, TCCHS Science Department chair, meaning “there is something for everyone.”

“Students build and test devices, and study and take tests,” she said. “It’s great for our students to see what students from other schools are doing.  These are the students they are competing with for entrance to college and for many scholarships.”

Students enjoyed the experience, which allowed them to test their scientific abilities.

Participant Maggie Martin, who competed in two events, said the tournament “required a lot of preparation, but it was very fun to put my knowledge to good use.”

Participant Steven Tran appreciated the challenge.

“It was a challenging experience but in a good way,” he said. “I didn’t know much at the beginning, but I had fun trying my best.”