Algenol floats a challenge

The folks at Algenol Biofuels know something about scientific and business challenges. The company has been working for years to develop fuels from algae on a commercial scale.

So now it has issued a challenge of its own.

Actually, it's a challenge for kids. For the third year, Algenol is hosting a competition for students from kindergarten through 12th grade to inspire them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math.

This year's challenge to students is to design, build and race solar-powered boats. The competition is divided among elementary, middle and high school racers.

Already, 70 teams and 250 students are registered for the competition, which will be held Feb. 1 at Algenol's biofuels refinery facility in south Lee County. There will be trophies and cash prizes for the fastest boats.

In addition, there will be cash and trophies awarded for best-dressed boat, greenest boat, best team spirit, most innovative and judges' pick. Weather forecast: sunny.