MCAST participates in ‘Tellieqa Telliequn’

On 7 June, MCAST participated in Tellieqa Telliequn, an event that, under the auspices of Valletta 2018 Foundation, formed part of the Pageant of the Seas.

The main objective of the event was for participants to construct a boat that could somehow float and eventually reach Valletta from Senglea, using alternative sources of power other than traditional engines and fuels. The use of oars was also ruled out!

Baptised MCAST 1, the college contraption was made out of, at least, half a ton worth of recycled metal! Eight, 45-gallon metal drums provided the necessary buoyancy, while a frame comprising of welded hollow sections held everything together.

An unconventional, yet ingenious, mode of propulsion was chosen. This consisted of two, underlying paddles with flaps that could open and close on every stroke, driving the boat forward.

Once the design was finalised, students and members of staff at the Institute of Engineering and Transport (Building and Construction) scrambled to assemble the structure during their welding classes and in between lessons. Berger Paints, their sponsor, provided the metal drums and the boat graphics.

Once afloat, the MCAST boat coped fairly well considering that pre-race testing was not possible for the team. Four appositelyselected, adrenaline-packed students provided the necessary brute force and elbow grease to make it all the way, despite strong lateral currents and a glitch occurring just a few minutes before the start!

No trophies were won by team MCAST this time round. Nevertheless, the race objectives were attained and all participants had a great time.

One looks forward to a similar event due in two year's time. We are confident that team MCAST will once again be there to compete and experience the fun and camaraderie.