Dear Mark,
I'm sorry to know that you do not have enough time to participate in the technology competition. However, as far as I concern, you should still join the competition. Firstly, this is a precious opportunity for you to hone your skill in this field and you will regret if you give up. Secondly, you have always been enthusiastic about science and you also have a great background in technology.Thirdly, you will make a lot progress and gain a huge amount of knowledge by facing the challenge and compete with others. Anyway, I think you should take the chance and wish you good luck.
Best,
Yang Liu