When: Registration 3 p.m., racing at 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2009

Where: Palm Beach Atlantic University, Rinker Hall Parking Lot (Located south of Okeechobee Boulevard and Olive Avenue, off Vallowe Court)

Why: To raise funds for PBA Science Club

Who: PBA students, faculty, staff,  alumni, and anyone else.

Sponsors:PBA Science Club and Ecolab

WEST PALM BEACH - Bugs around West Palm Beach are training for Palm Beach Atlantic University’s 27th Annual Great American Bug Race Wednesday, Nov. 4, part of the University’s Homecoming festivities. The Bug Race is open to the public and there is no admission charge for spectators. Cost to enter a bug is $1. Participants may bring their own bugs or purchase one for 50 cents. Registration begins at 3 p.m.; the race begins at 3:30 p.m.

For those unaccustomed to bug racing, cookie bug decorating (all edible) is planned and specially designed T-shirts will be sold, with all proceeds benefiting the PBA Science Club.  

Bugs will run in heats; the owner/coach/manager must retrieve his/her bug at the end of each heat. If the bug escapes, however, another competitor may be purchased. Prizes of $10, $25 and $50 are awarded with a grand prize of $100 for the fastest bug.

Rules are strict: only true insects may compete (no spiders); no high-tech running shoes or spikes allowed; no chemicals (random drug testing of bugs is a possibility!); bugs must run (or walk or stagger) across the finish line; no flying or hopping permitted. Bugs are not allowed to eat or otherwise attack other competitors.

Sponsored by Ecolab, the Bug Race proceeds benefit the Science Club at Palm Beach Atlantic.

Palm Beach Atlantic University is a private, independent university offering undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees, with campuses in West Palm Beach, Orlando and Wellington. The University is dedicated to the integration of Christian principles to prepare students for lifelong learning, leadership and service. For additional information, visit our Web site: http://www.pba.edu.