Team Resources

General Resources

We will be working to facilitate and assist teams as our resources allow. We encourage teams new to rover competitions to reach out to other more experienced teams. However if you have more questions, you are welcome to email us, and we would be happy to provide whatever assistance we can.

CIRC organizers take no responsibility for arranging teams transportation, deliveries or accommodations for their participation. We will provide letters confirming registration for those applying for visas.

Some areas of support we are in the process of arranging for participants:

  • Discounted hotel accommodation
  • Work space throughout the weekend
  • Design and manufacturing resources

For teams who are considering participating, or are registered, some useful links are below:

Special Discounts

As the title sponsor, Protocase at www.protocase.com is providng a manufacturing credit of $2000 to all teams that participate in CIRC 2018. Simply tell Protocase your team is a participant to be eligible for the credit.

Teams that are already registered for the University Rover Challenge (URC) will not receive this credit in addition to the credit they are already receiving as a registrant for the URC. More information regarding the usage of this credit will be provided to teams upon their registration into the challenge.

RobotShop at www.robotshop.com is able to provide a 7% discount to teams participating in CIRC. RobotShop is a great resource for electronics and mechanical parts of all kinds. Our experience with them as robot builders has been fantastic, and they have a reputation of fast shipping for the inevitable last minute projects!


For more information on how to apply the discount, contact us at [email protected].

UAV Guidelines for CIRC

All information provided below is simply reference information. Any individuals that wish to qualify for UAV operation at CIRC are fully responsible for ensuring they meet all relevant Canadian laws and regulations. CIRC officials will not hesitate to report any drone operators that are suspect of not meeting the regulations.

  • UAV operations are only permitted when explicit permission is granted in writing by the CIRC organizers and Midland Provincial Park in addition to meeting all the requirement laid out by Canadian Law.
  • Operators shall not contact Alberta Parks or Midland Provincial Park directly. All communication will be handled through the Canadian International Rover Competition.
  • UAVs shall not be used to aid rover operators during events.
  • UAVs may only be operated under Canadian Special Flight Operations Certificates (SFOCs) registered in the Edmonton Flight Information Region (Edmonton FIR).
  • UAVs must be operated in accordance with all SFOC requirements, the guidelines of the Canadian Aeronautics Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. A-2), Canadian Aviation Regulations (SOR/96-433), and the Edmonton FIR best practices and UAV integration procedures. The latest revision of the above documents shall be applied.
  • The competition is held in the vicinity of the Drumheller Municipal airport as seen here, UAV operators must be adequately trained and authorized to operate within the vicinity of a class G mandatory frequency aerodrome.

Required UAV Documentation

The following documentation must be sent to CIRC to receive approval for UAV Operations.

  1. Standard Operations Procedures conforming to Transport Canada standards
  2. Proof of 3rd party liability insurance naming the Canadian Space Technology Advancement Group (CSTAG)
  3. Detailed flight and maintenance logs for the specific UAVs which will be brought to CIRC
  4. Document detailing training and experience of UAV operators

Drumheller Climate and Safety Tips

Some hazards that may be encountered at the Canadian International Rover Challenge are presented below. We encourage you follow the guidelines below to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience. Please note that you are responsible for your personal safety, and it is your responsibility to ensure you are fully aware of all risks that you may encounter. This list is not guaranteed, or claimed to be a comprehensive list of all hazards or risks.

  • The sun can be very strong in Drumheller
    • August is typically very hot and dry, with average temperatures in the summer reaching approximately 26°C and daily highs exceeding 33°C.
    • Wear sunscreen (SPF 50+) to prevent burning. Remember to reapply periodically.
    • Wear a hat and sunglasses (ensure they have UV rating) to protect your head from the sun.
    • Stay hydrated! Bring a water bottle or hydration pack, and drink lots of water. Water will always be available at CIRC Central and the task sites.
    • CIRC Central is a air conditioned facility where you can work on your rover away from the heat of the sun.
    • Long sleeve, ligh, moisture-wicking shirt polyester or polyester blend.
  • The terrain is very rough and can be a tripping hazard.
    • Plan your route carefully and watch your steps especially when walking off the designated paths.
    • Wear fully enclosed footwear. Sandals are not recommended.
  • Rattlesnakes live in the area where the competition takes place.
    • Snake bites are very rare but you should always be on the lookout to avoid getting too close.
  • Working on your rover:
    • Please exercise caution and use appropriate safety equipment when using tools to construct or modify your rover for the competition.

Medical Facilities & Supplies:

Medical Centre:

  • Drumheller Health Centre (351 9 St NW)
  • In the event of an emergency: Dial 9-1-1

Pharmacies:

  • Shoppers Drug Mart (41 Railway Ave W)
  • Riverside Value Drug Mart (167 Centre St)
  • Medicine Shoppe (101 6 Ave SE)
CIRC 2017 team briefing CIRC 2017 team briefing
Team briefing at the start of CIRC 2017