Jigsaw puzzling, a traditionally serene pastime, has taken a competitive turn in the UK with the rise of “speed puzzling fever.” The inaugural UK Nationals event in Bradford, scheduled for April, has garnered significant interest, attracting hundreds of participants eager to tackle never-before-seen puzzles within a time limit.
Organized by Anneka Thompson, the event marks the UK’s first foray into speed puzzling tournaments associated with the esteemed “puzzle Olympics.” Participants will not only compete against the clock but also adhere to strict competition rules, with finishers earning a coveted ranking in the championship.
While jigsaw puzzles have long been synonymous with relaxation and mindfulness, the advent of speed puzzling has injected a new level of excitement into the hobby. Individuals and pairs will test their skills in completing 500-piece and 1,000-piece puzzles, respectively, in a single round at the upcoming competition.
As the buzz around speed puzzling grows, enthusiasts have found inspiration from social media influencers who showcase their puzzling prowess on platforms like YouTube and Instagram. Younger generations, including celebrities like Tom Holland, have also contributed to reshaping the perception of jigsaw puzzles as a pastime enjoyed by all age groups.
The resurgence of puzzling gained momentum during the pandemic, offering solace to many seeking a mental escape. Events like the Gibsons Open Jigsaw Championships in Newmarket have long been a staple in the UK, but the UK Nationals in Bradford represents a new chapter in aligning with global puzzle standards set by the World Jigsaw Puzzle Federation.
Ravensburger, a prominent puzzle company, is sponsoring the Bradford event and has curated exclusive puzzles for participants. The competitive spirit of speed puzzling has captivated puzzle enthusiasts, with participants aiming to achieve lightning-fast completion times measured in minutes rather than hours or days.
At the recent World Jigsaw Puzzle Championship in Valladolid, Spain, champions completed intricate puzzles in record times, showcasing their skill and dexterity. The winning strategies vary, from sorting pieces methodically to relying on intuition and experience gained from solving numerous puzzles.
For newcomers to speed puzzling, the journey to mastery begins with practice and perseverance. Thompson emphasizes the importance of trial and error, suggesting that improvement comes with time and dedication to honing one’s puzzling skills.
As speed puzzling gains popularity, it underscores the dynamic nature of traditional hobbies and the evolving interests of enthusiasts seeking new challenges and opportunities for friendly competition.