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How to Choose the Right Events at Your First JCA Competition

Stepping into your first speedcubing competition is an exhilarating moment. The air hums with focus, the sound of rapid turning fills the room, and cubers of all ages share in a common passion.

How to Choose the Right Events at Your First JCA Competition

Stepping into your first speedcubing competition is an exhilarating moment. The air hums with focus, the sound of rapid turning fills the room, and cubers of all ages share in a common passion. But for a newcomer, the list of events on the registration page can be both exciting and a little overwhelming. How do you choose? Picking the right events is crucial for ensuring a positive, fun, and successful first competitive experience. This guide will help you and your parents navigate the options with confidence.

Start with the Basics: The Non-Negotiable 3×3

First things first, let’s talk about the heart of speedcubing: the 3x3x3 cube. For most competitors at a JCA competition, this is the main event. It’s the puzzle everyone knows and the foundation upon which all other skills are often built.

  • For Cubers Under 18: The 3×3 event is typically mandatory. This ensures that every young competitor participates in the core discipline of the sport. Don’t see this as a limitation! View it as your entry into the central community of cubers. It’s your chance to record an official average, see how you perform under pressure, and share the experience with everyone else.

  • For Cubers Under 7: Great news! The 3×3 event is optional for our youngest participants. We understand that the pressure of a timed solve can be daunting. Your child is welcome to watch, soak in the atmosphere, and participate only in the events they feel completely comfortable with.

Navigating the Optional Events: A World of Possibilities

Once you’ve understood your relationship with the 3×3, it’s time to explore the wonderful variety of other puzzles. Your age determines which of these you can register for, a system designed to prevent overwhelm and ensure age-appropriate challenges.

  • For Cubers Under 18: You have access to the first four classic optional events: 2×2, Pyraminx, Mini Relay, and Mirror Blocks. This curated list is perfect for beginners.

    • 2×2: A fantastic, fast-paced puzzle. It’s less about complex method and more about intuitive thinking and blazing-fast finger tricks. It’s a great confidence booster.

    • Pyraminx: With its simple mechanics and low move count, the Pyraminx is one of the most accessible WCA puzzles. It’s incredibly satisfying and a perfect first step beyond cubes.

    • Mini Relay: This is pure, team-like fun. It’s a test of versatility as you solve three different puzzles in sequence. It breaks up the individual pressure and adds a playful element.

    • Mirror Blocks: This puzzle will change how you think about cubing. It looks impossible when scrambled, but it’s a 3×3 in disguise, teaching you to solve by shape and feel instead of color.

  • For Parents & Cubers 18+: The focus is solely on the mandatory 3×3 event. This allows you to experience the thrill of competition while supporting your child without the distraction of managing multiple other puzzles.

Making Your Final Selection: A Strategy for Success

So, how many events should you actually choose? Here’s a simple strategy:

  1. Start Small: If it’s your very first competition, consider just the mandatory 3×3 and one or two optional events. This lets you manage your energy and focus without feeling rushed between event rounds.

  2. Play to Your Strengths: Have you been practicing the Pyraminx at home? Love the tactile challenge of the Mirror Block? Choose the events you already enjoy! Your first competition should be about celebrating your current skills.

  3. Consider the Schedule: Remember, choosing more events means you’ll have a busier day. It’s a trade-off between experiencing more of the competition and having a more relaxed, social experience.

Your first JCA competition is a celebration of your journey as a cuber. The goal isn’t just to win, but to learn, make friends, and create memories that will fuel your passion for years to come. By choosing your events wisely, you set the stage for a truly incredible day. We can’t wait to see you there!