TRU Science

Popsicle Stick Bridge Contest

In partnership with EGBC, TRU hosts the annual Popsicle Stick Bridge Contest on our Kamloops campus. We hope to see you there!

The goal of the contest is to construct the strongest bridge possible with 100 Popsicle sticks and white glue. The bridge must span a 500 mm gap; otherwise, the design of the bridge is left up to the competitor.

Bridges are normally built days or weeks in advance to allow glue to cure then tested to the point of failure on the day of the contest.

This event has become a popular annual favourite sparking friendly competition between elementary schools, high schools, university students and engineering professionals. Results have grown more impressive from year to year.

We invite you and your friends, siblings, parents, classmates and teachers to enter the competition and enjoy the fun.

Participants are encouraged — but not required — to pre-register by email at popsiclestickbridge2024@gmail.com

Entries are accepted in the following categories:

  • Elementary school: Grades 7 and under
  • Secondary school: Grades 8 to 12
  • Open: General public, mixed-category teams, university students, except professional engineers
  • Corporate Cup: Open to engineering professionals only

You may enter as an individual or as part of a team and are welcomed to enter as many bridges as you like. For team entries, the age of the oldest member will determine your bridge's competition category.

Details

Bridges may be registered on site the day of the competition