Young Writers Society

Several small humanoid robots taking part in "Robot Athletic Meet 2007" toppled over as they collided on the indoor field, their every move buzzing with the sound of their motors.

In most cases, the robots -- some remote-controlled by their owners and others pre-programmed to respond to the ball's movements -- were able to pick themselves up and carry on with the match.

Ken Senoh, chief organiser of the event, said robots might soon surpass humans with their physical prowess.

"Today's robots are still toddlers, so to speak, in terms of their physical capabilities," said Senoh, a professor of advanced science and technology at the University of Tokyo.