Tech hosted a portion of the 35th annual regional round of “Battle of the Brains” in which the University’s four teams placed among the top 12.Sponsored by IBM, the competition challenges teams of three students to solve complex and rigorous real-world problems by using open technology and advanced computing methods under a brutal five-hour deadline. During the challenge, the students complete an entire semester’s worth of computer programming.
“The Battle of the Brains is the Olympics of the computer programming world,” Michael Karasick, IBM Software Group strategy and technology vice president, said. “The amount of talent that we have the opportunity to witness each year is truly impressive and a testament to the value of this competition.”
The regional round first-place winner was Middle Tennessee State University’s team Blueraider #1, solving seven problems correctly and in the least amount of time.
Placing second was Tech’s Thrashing the Cache with six solved problems. Tech had three other placing teams. The Gutsmen placed fourth, Battletoads placed ninth and Narcoleptic Sparkin’ Penguins placed 12th.
“This year’s groups of students were very enthusiastic at practice sessions,” Martha Kosa, computer science associate professor, said. “They truly worked well together on their respective teams, both during practice and the real contest. I am very proud of them.”
Other schools involved with the competition were Belmont University, East Tennessee State University, Vanderbilt University, University of Tennessee- Knoxville, University of North Alabama and Maryville College.
The overall winner from 100 three-person teams will be determined at the March 4, 2011 World Finals in Egypt.
