Speedcubing competitions are official events where cubers from around the world come together to test their skills and break records. These competitions follow strict international rules and provide a platform for both beginner and professional speedcubers to measure their performance.

Whether you’re an experienced cuber or just starting with speedcubing, understanding how competitions work can help you take your first steps into the competitive world of cubing. Let’s look at all aspects of speedcubing competitions.

What is a speedcubing competition and who organizes them?

A speedcubing competition is an official event where participants attempt to solve various types of puzzles as quickly as possible under standardized conditions. The World Cube Association (WCA) is the international organization that regulates and organizes all official speedcubing competitions worldwide.

These competitions are organized by certified WCA delegates and local organizers who ensure that all rules and procedures are followed correctly. In the Netherlands, WCA competitions regularly take place in various cities, organized by local cubing communities and clubs. Each competition must be approved in advance by the WCA and meet strict quality requirements regarding venue, equipment, and organization.

The competitions vary from small local events with 50 participants to large international championships with hundreds of cubers from around the world. All results are officially recorded in the WCA database and count toward world rankings.

What categories exist in speedcubing competitions?

Speedcubing competitions feature 17 official categories, ranging from the classic 3x3x3 cube to specialized puzzles like Megaminx and Square-1. The most popular category is 3x3x3 Speed Solving, where participants solve a standard speedcube as quickly as possible.

Other important categories include:

• 2x2x2 to 7x7x7 cubes in various difficulty levels
• 3x3x3 One-Handed, where you may only use one hand
• 3x3x3 Blindfolded, where you first examine the cube and then solve it with your eyes closed
• 3x3x3 Fewest Moves, where you solve the cube in as few moves as possible
• Special puzzles like Pyraminx, Skewb, Clock, and Megaminx

Not all categories are held at every competition. Smaller events often focus on the most popular categories, while large competitions can offer the full range of puzzles. Participants can register for multiple categories during one event.

How does the ranking and timing system work?

The ranking system in speedcubing competitions is based on average times over multiple attempts, with the best and worst times being eliminated. For most categories, you get five attempts, with the average of the middle three times becoming your official result.

Timing is done with professional Stackmat timers that are accurate to hundredths of a second. Each attempt begins with an inspection time of maximum 15 seconds, during which you may look at the cube but not touch it. Then you place your hands on the timer, wait for the green light, and begin solving.

The ranking system works as follows:

1. Average times determine the main ranking
2. In case of tied averages, the best single time counts
3. All times are recorded in the WCA database
4. Personal records (PR) and national and world records are automatically updated

For some categories, such as Fewest Moves, different rules apply: there it’s about the average number of moves instead of time.

What are the official rules and procedures during a competition?

Official speedcubing competitions follow strict WCA rules that ensure all participants compete under equal conditions. Each attempt is supervised by a judge who oversees the correct procedure and timing.

The standard procedure for each attempt includes:

1. The cube is scrambled by officials according to a computer-generated scramble
2. You get a maximum of 15 seconds inspection time
3. Hands on the timer, waiting for the green light
4. Solving the puzzle
5. Stopping the timer and checking the solution by the judge
6. Signing the score sheet for confirmation

Important rules during competitions include the prohibition of aids during solving, except in specific categories, and strict rules about when an attempt is marked as DNF (Did Not Finish). There are also specific rules for different puzzle types and procedures for filing complaints in disputes.

How can you participate in a speedcubing competition in the Netherlands?

Participating in a speedcubing competition in the Netherlands starts with finding a suitable event through the official WCA website and registering online in advance. You don’t need a minimum time or qualification to participate in your first competition.

The practical steps are:

1. Search for a competition on the WCA website under “Competitions”
2. Register online within the specified deadline
3. Pay the registration fee (usually between €10 and €25)
4. Get a good speedcube and practice the standard procedures
5. Arrive on time at the competition with valid identification

For beginners, it’s recommended to first attend a local competition as a spectator to get a feel for the atmosphere. Dutch competitions are known for their friendly, helpful atmosphere, where experienced cubers gladly share tips with newcomers. The Dutch speedcubing community is active on social media and regularly organizes events in various cities.

Remember that your first competition should mainly be about the experience and meeting other cubers. Performance will come naturally as you gain more experience in the competitive environment.