The millionaire’s pastime of yacht racing seems a world away from cash-strapped science and technology departments, but a competition in boat design could make a difference for one lucky school. Teams in the 9 to 13-year age group can enter a national competition to win a trip to New Zealand to watch the start of the America’s Cup Challenger series in October. They have to design and test a fast hull. To help them, teachers can use free downloadable lesson plans that incorporate basic physical concepts like balance, floating and sinking - and then put principles into profitable practice. You can get more information and register at www.gbrchallenge.com Simply click on the CREW Challenge box on the left side of the home page.