SANDUSKY, Ohio, Jan. 31, 2011 -- K'NEX, the construction toy company headquartered in Hatfield, Pa., and Cedar Point amusement park/resort in Sandusky, Ohio, have joined forces to launch the first-ever Cedar Point K'NEX Great Thrill Ride Build-Off.

The Cedar Point K'NEX Great Thrill Ride Build-Off pits classrooms and other student groups in competition to build the most innovative and thrilling amusement park ride model using K'NEX building sets.

"Amusement park rides aren't just fun to ride, they are also fun to create and a great way to teach important math and science principles," said K'NEX President and CEO Michael Araten. "We are excited to partner with Cedar Point to award creative young builders through this unique building contest."

Running from Jan. 31 through April 3, the Cedar Point K'NEX Great Thrill Ride Build-Off is designed for middle and high school classes and student organizations such as science clubs. Upon registration, participants will receive a discount coupon that can be used for the purchase of materials from knex.com. However, no purchase is necessary to compete.

Participating schools must design and build a ride and submit a photo/video of the project on www.knex.com. The five winners will have their rides displayed during Cedar Point's Math and Science Week, scheduled from May 16-20.

Prizes include K'NEX building sets and gift certificates and complimentary admission tickets to Cedar Point. For more information, official contest rules, and to enter, visit www.cedarpoint.com or www.knex.com.

Cedar Point's Math and Science Week

During Math & Science Week, special educational programs and demonstrations designed for middle and high school students are presented at the park. Other exhibitors include NASA's Glenn Research Center of Cleveland, COSI (Center of Science and Industry) of Columbus and the Detroit Science Center. A Weather Education Day will also be held during the event. For information about Math & Science Week at Cedar Point, please visit www.cedarpoint.com/mathscience.

K'NEX Brands

Founded in 1992, K'NEX Brands, the world's most innovative construction toy company, was established to make and sell what has become one of the world's leading integrated construction systems for children. Recipient of more than 200 international awards and recognitions, K'NEX is America's building toy company focused on building worlds kids love and encourages youngsters to "imagine, build and play."