Newmarket played host to the largest ever one-day speed cubing competition in North America, with more than 300 competitors solving twisty puzzles in the canadianCUBING event Saturday.
The Newmarket Open, held at the Magna Centre, attracted speedcubers from across Simcoe County, York Region, the Greater Toronto Area, and beyond, competing in the following events: 2x2x2; 3x3x3; 3x3x3 One-Handed; Pyraminx and Skewb.
Speedcubing involves solving a variety of twisty puzzles, the most famous being the 3x3x3 Rubik's Cube, as quickly as possible.
Saturday's event not only offered competition but an opportunity for speedcubers to connect with the friends they have made at previous events.
Isaac Lau, a speedcuber from Stouffville, who met up with his friends Remi Chretien of Gatineau and Jarrett Moreau-Urie of Ottawa, said the events are like "playdates" for cubers.
The average age of the cubers appeared to be about 11, with many saying they have been cubing for about a year.
Amor Wyse, who came to compete from downtown Toronto, said speedcubing is only one of her many hobbies and activities — she also plays tennis, is in a choir, and has her orange belt in taekwondo.
— With files from Debora Kelly
