As Australian jigsaw puzzlers gear up for the upcoming World Jigsaw Puzzle Championship in Valladolid, Spain, the excitement in the community is palpable. What was once a niche hobby has now evolved into a competitive sport, with enthusiasts pushing the boundaries of speed and skill.
The surge in popularity of speed puzzling in Australia can be attributed to the lockdown measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, which provided individuals with the time and opportunity to discover their talent for piecing together intricate puzzles. This newfound interest has seen a significant increase in the number of Australian participants at international puzzle competitions.
In 2019, only one Australian attended the World Jigsaw Puzzle Championship, but this year, at least 40 enthusiasts are expected to represent the country. The growth of the Australian Jigsaw Puzzle Association, spearheaded by D’Arne Healy, has played a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community among puzzlers and providing a platform for them to showcase their skills on a global stage.
For Melbourne-based financial planner Heidi Schwegler, the journey into competitive puzzling began during the lockdown period, leading her to participate in the world championships in 2023 and 2024. As preparations intensify for this year’s event, Schwegler and her team are honing their strategies and techniques to tackle puzzles with precision and speed.
The camaraderie among puzzle enthusiasts is evident as teams come together to practice for hours on end, aiming to complete challenging puzzles in record time. The competitive nature of the sport necessitates strategic alliances and division of tasks among team members, creating an environment that is both exhilarating and intellectually stimulating.
Speed puzzling not only tests participants’ dexterity and problem-solving abilities but also fosters a sense of unity and friendship within the community. Reigning Australian nationals champion Katrina Coleman emphasizes the collaborative spirit of the sport, where individuals come together to conquer a common adversary – the puzzle itself.
As the popularity of speed puzzling continues to soar in Australia, with the recent success of online puzzle contests attracting a growing number of participants, the future of competitive jigsaw puzzling looks promising. The Australian Jigsaw Puzzle Association’s national championships, which drew a record number of solo competitors, underscore the widespread appeal and excitement surrounding this unique and engaging pastime.
With enthusiasts eagerly anticipating the upcoming World Jigsaw Puzzle Championship, the stage is set for a display of skill, teamwork, and sheer determination as participants from around the world converge in Valladolid to test their mettle and celebrate the art of puzzling.
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