DECODE: Italy, leadership, and next challenges
A season of international excellence: DUNA competed in Italy, the team earned 2nd place for the Inspire Award, and Sara Urdaneta made history as a FIRST Leadership Award finalist.
Historical Review
In March 2026, we represented our school and Venezuela at the FIRST Tech Challenge Italy Championship in Cesenatico, Italy, competing against high-level international teams.
We competed with our robot DUNA, reached 3rd place in the overall ranking, and once again qualified for playoffs as alliance captains, showing competitive consistency internationally.
We earned 2nd place for the Inspire Award, the competition's highest recognition for excellence in innovation, impact, teamwork, and FIRST values. This achievement qualified us for an international Premier Event.
Sara Urdaneta also made history by becoming a FIRST Leadership Award finalist, the first Venezuelan to achieve it. As a finalist, she represented Venezuela at the World Championship in Houston.
Copa Ka'i 2026 and Istanbul Premier Event 2026 are upcoming milestones on the team's path.
Gallery
Season gallery
Photos and visual moments from this stage of the team.
Results
- 3rd place overall ranking in Italy
- Alliance captains in playoffs
- 2nd place Inspire Award
- Qualified for an international Premier Event
- Sara Urdaneta finalist for the FIRST Leadership Award
Lessons Learned
- International excellence combines robot performance, impact, and values.
- Competitive consistency is built before arriving at the event.
- Leadership also opens paths for the country.