BlogCrossword Puzzles are serious business. Just ask the 674 professionals and rookies that participated in the 2009 American Crossword Puzzle Tournament (ACPT), directed by the New York Times Crossword Puzzle Editor Will Shortz.
Competitors must complete seven individual crossword puzzle rounds to vie for the final. Each round is scored based on puzzle difficulty, as well as speed and accuracy of the solver’s solution. After the initial seven rounds have been completed, the scores from each round are added up, and the top three members of the top three divisions (organized by skill level) participate in the final eighth puzzle.
What is interesting, and what should be noted very closely, is the format of the eighth and final round. The puzzle for this round is enlarged onto a white board, placed on an easel, and solvers complete the puzzle in front of a full audience. Each competitor wears earmuffs to block any external noise, for fair competition and to avoid distraction. Live commentary is available for the audience’s viewing pleasure.
When organizing or competing in any tournament, it’s important for all competitors and supporters to watch the final match. It will entertain the audience by showcasing great skill, display healthy competition between the best players, and give everyone something to aspire to for the next tournament. Make sure you take a gander at the finals video of the 2009 ACPT included below. It has all of those things and more.
This is a great example of a well run tournament. Solvers of all skill levels will have fun competing in their division. You needn’t be the best to feel the adrenaline from high intensity competition, and that’s what every tournament organizer should strive to encourage. American Crossword Puzzle Tournament, we salute you. Well done.
