For Immediate Release                                            
October 4, 2018                      
             
For More Information Contact:
Lisa Marie Payne CNYDrones@gmail.com, 315-292-2002,  (c)315-732-1001 (o)   

CNY Drones, in cooperation with the SUNY Polytechnic Institute Academy of Model Aeronautics University Model Aviation Student Club (SUNY AMA), opened registration the 2019 Forest Fury Team Drone Challenge at the 3rd Annual Drone Info Day at SUNY’s Utica Campus on September 30, 2018.   The annual competition for students, age 11+, takes place on April 7, 2019.  Forest Fury is the centerpiece of CNY Drones volunteer-run programs. Forest Fury’s theme is based on a forest fire rescue scenario.  It will include a hiking trail, fire tower, mountain terrain, and a time-triggered landslide.  Elements require students to plan missions for maximum scoring within 5-minute flights. Teams compete in a 30 x 60 ft. netted field with simulated mountain terrain, trees and other obstacles.  The addition of beacons and sensors by SUNY student volunteers has elevated the difficulty level for those who wish to take on more challenging missions.  Tasks are set to allow new teams as much opportunity as seasoned teams.  
 
SUNY AMA, along with the SUNY 3D Printing and Design, and Fabrication Student Clubs, are assisting with the creation of the Forest Fury field.  SUNY AMA is taking the lead, hosting the anticipated 2-field, 16-team competition along with preparatory activities.  The annual Team Drone Challenge is part of CNY Drones' and SUNY AMA’s efforts to promote STEM, provide awareness of drone technology educational and employment opportunities and build a safe flying recreational drone community.
 
Teams from Syracuse, New York to West Haven, Connecticut have already signed on for the April competition.  Registration is limited to the first 16 teams. Up to 5 team members can compete in field positions at one time.  Teams can be as small as 2 members with adult supervision. There are no upper limits on team size.  Drone specifications are available on the CNY Drones website.  Registration is $75 per team until the event fills or January 30, 2019.  Online build sessions and a Syracuse, New York scrimmage are in the works.  A sample build video is currently available on the CNY Drones website.  CNY Drones operates as a community-based organization and Model Aviation Student Club under the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA).  For more information on the CNY Drones, SUNY AMA and Forest Fury Team Drone Challenge, visit: www.CNYDrones.org or email: CNYDrones@gmail.com.