BILLINGS, Mont.—High School students from across the state will match wits Feb. 1, in the Big Sky Regional Science Bowl competition at the Billings Hotel and Convention Center.

Thirty teams from 21 schools will vie for top honors in the 11th annual double elimination competition as they answer questions in astronomy, biology, chemistry, earth science, mathematics and physics. The winning team earns an all-expense paid trip to represent Montana in the Department of Energy's National Science Bowl, May 1-6 in Washington, D.C.

Supported by sponsoring businesses, "the regional bowl brings together the best and brightest math and science students from across the state for a day of fun-filled competition," explained Science Bowl coordinator Cheryl Jones.

"Many of our teams travel a long way to get to the regional. They've been practicing for months to have the honor of representing our state at the nationals. A team of 80 volunteers from across the community have also been preparing for the event," she added. "We've trained judges, moderators, timers and other volunteers. We're ready."

Major sponsors of this year's event include Western Area Power Administration, PP&L Montana, American Title and Escrow, SSR Engineers Inc., CRM Inc., Holy Rosary Health Center and Rocky Mountain College.

Competition begins at 8 a.m. To volunteer or for more information, contact Jones at (406) 247-7424 or e-mail jones@wapa.gov.

MEDIA ADVISORY:
Double elimination tournament play goes on all day with the championship round set for about 4 p.m. The awards ceremony will follow immediately. Interviews with competing teams and their coaches will be available throughout the day.