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Official Q&A: VEX IQ Robotics Competition 2025-2026: Mix & Match
3073: GG12 Preload
Hello,
We are looking for clarification regarding rule GG12 , which states:
“Don’t Start Before the Timer, and Stop Moving at the end of the Match. Driver inputs and Robot may not begin before the Match timer starts, and must cease at the end of the Match, when the timer reaches 0:00. A pre-programmed routine which causes Robot motion to start before the Match or continue after the end of the Match would violate this rule.”
Our question relates specifically to the phrase “pre-programmed routine”.
A preload is allowed to start elevated or held by the robot. If we are using Huey, we would like to begin the match with the claw closed and holding the preload pin in the air.
To do this, the claw motor must close before the match begins.
Would closing the claw and holding the pin before the timer starts be considered illegal robot motion, or is this considered part of the legal starting configuration?
Thank you for your clarification.
If the Robot is completely stationary in its starting position on the Field (see clause E of <SG1>) and does not begin moving until the Match timer starts, it's not breaking rule <GG12>. Teams can operate their Robots briefly when setting them up on the Field before the Match, as long as they're not delaying the start of the Match (see <GG3>).