In the United Kingdom, a surge of enthusiasm for speed puzzling has taken hold, transforming the traditional leisurely pastime into a competitive frenzy akin to the popular show “Squid Game.” The upcoming inaugural UK Nationals event in Bradford on April 5 is witnessing a rapid sell-out of entries, with participants gearing up to tackle never-before-seen puzzles against the ticking clock.

While jigsaw puzzling has long been synonymous with relaxation and mindfulness, the emergence of speed puzzling has injected a new level of excitement into the activity. Organized by Anneka Thompson, the event marks the UK’s first foray into the world of competitive puzzling, aligning with the esteemed “puzzle Olympics” and promising participants a shot at earning official rankings.

The allure of speed puzzling has been steadily gaining traction, propelled by dedicated puzzlers who share their passion through platforms like YouTube and Instagram. Thompson notes a palpable buzz surrounding the sport, with enthusiasts flocking to events nationwide in increasing numbers. Contrary to the leisurely pace typically associated with puzzling, speed puzzling demands intense focus and quick thinking, offering participants a mental escape from daily worries as they strive to outpace their rivals.

The resurgence of puzzling’s popularity can be attributed in part to the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted many Britons to rediscover the joy of piecing together jigsaws as a means of unwinding. Notably, younger demographics have also embraced the pastime, with figures like actor Tom Holland championing jigsaw puzzling as a rewarding and engaging activity.

In addition to the UK Nationals, the country hosts other notable events such as the Gibsons Open Jigsaw Championships in Suffolk. However, the UK Nationals stands out as a benchmark event adhering to the standards set by the World Jigsaw Puzzle Federation, featuring two competitive categories: singles and pairs. Solo participants will tackle a 500-piece puzzle, while pairs will collaborate on a 1,000-piece challenge, vying for the championship title.

Ravensburger, a prominent puzzle company, is sponsoring the Bradford event and has crafted exclusive puzzles for the competition, shrouded in secrecy until the day of the contest. Katy Fletcher, Ravensburger’s head of marketing and product development, emphasizes the unique appeal of jigsaw puzzles, highlighting their ability to foster concentration and present diverse experiences to enthusiasts.

At the pinnacle of speed puzzling competitions are the world championships, where participants showcase their rapid puzzle-solving skills. Recent champions completed intricate puzzles in remarkably short times, underscoring the intensity and skill required to excel in this competitive arena. Strategies for success vary widely, from meticulous piece sorting to intuitive problem-solving, with seasoned competitors honing their techniques through practice and experience.

As the excitement builds for the upcoming UK Nationals, aspiring speed puzzlers are encouraged to sharpen their skills and embrace the challenge of mastering the art of swift puzzle-solving. With the clock ticking and adrenaline running high, participants are poised to test their abilities and vie for glory in the electrifying world of competitive jigsaw puzzling.