In the light of the recent pandemic that has faced the world, travel restrictions are still in place. As many of you will be aware, for the 2020 Petrobowl and Student Paper Contests, to date, we have only been able to hold limited physical regional qualifiers. For the remaining contests ‘virtual’ alternatives have been put in place for the majority of regions.

With regards to the COVID-19 virus, while restrictions are being lifted partially in some places, travel is still limited and borders remain closed. Social distancing is still being advised globally, and the health and safety of our student and professional members is always at the forefront in planning for SPE activities.

With restrictions and advice from recognized organizations from across the globe being so fluid, it is impossible for us to make predictions as to how things will develop. We are not confident that travel restrictions will be sufficiently lifted in time for all student contestants to secure visas and tickets to attend ATCE, and want to enable contestants for both Petrobowl and Student Paper Contest to stay ahead of the curve, instead of chasing potential disappointment. Therefore we have chosen to take the following actions regarding both program:

With ATCE fast approaching, it is with very heavy hearts that the decision has been made to cancel the Petrobowl final for 2020. The event will not be taking place at ATCE 2020 in Denver.

We are truly sorry as we all cherish the Petrobowl competition, and understand that it is one of the highlights of the SPE student calendar. It is as much so for professional members, volunteers, and staff.

Staff is working on a potential virtual competition to replace the physical final, but this will not be connected to ATCE and is currently not a definite. We will provide updates as soon as we have them.

With the situation as it is this year, and in the interest of fairness to all, we have decided to continue with the ‘virtual’ competition for the final. This is to enable the competition to go ahead while ensuring that all our regional student winners can compete on a fair platform, and abiding by any health and safety restrictions from international advisory bodies.

Further details on both decisions have been sent out to students in separate communications.

We thank you for your understanding during this difficult time, your loyalty to SPE, and hope you are all staying safe and well. As always your Society is here to serve you, and if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact [email protected].