FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I learn to solve the cube?
There are many resources on the internet to help you learn how to solve the cube. We can recommend CubeSkills.
When will there be a competition near me?
Speedcubing Australia runs competitions all over Australia but we need local organisers to help us out. If you are interested in having a competition in your local area, contact us for further information.
What is the WCA?
The World Cube Association (WCA) is the organisation that governs competitions for twisty puzzles, of which the Rubik’s Cube is the most well known. The WCA appoints delegates who are responsible for making sure that all WCA competitions are run according to the WCA’s mission, spirit, and regulations. Australia currently has 10 WCA delegates. One or more of these delegates will be at every WCA competition.
How fast do I have to be to compete?
To compete you only need to know how to solve the cube! Most competitions have a 5 minute time limit for the 3x3x3 cube event. Each competition lists the time limits and cut-offs for each event. So if you can solve the puzzle in that time YOU CAN COMPETE!
How old do I have to be to compete?
Anyone can compete at any age! Competitors range in age from 5-85 years, however most competitors are aged 10-20 years old. If you are considering coming to a competition – JUST DO IT! Competitions are a great experience regardless of age.
How do I register for a competition?
First, you need to make sure you have created a WCA account. You can do this by going to the sign-up page and creating an account. Once you have created the account and confirmed your email address, go to the Register page of the competition and follow the instructions carefully. Registrations usually fill very quickly, so make sure to register early. If a competition has filled up we will add your name to the waiting list.
Where do I find my WCA ID?
After your first competition you will receive a WCA ID, that will be the year you first competed, the first 4 letters of your surname and a numeric identifier eg 2009ZEMD01. For your first competition you only need a WCA account not a WCA ID.
When do I need to pay for the competition?
You will need to pay for the competition straight after registering. Upon registering you will receive an email stating your registration has been submitted and pending approval. This does NOT mean that you are on the registration list. Competitors will not be approved until payment has been made.
Are there different age or ability categories?
All competitors compete on the same level and all ages are welcome. WCA competitions are incredibly supportive environments and there is always a range of ages and abilities.
What events can I compete in?
There are currently 17 official WCA events. Not every competition will have every event, so make sure to look at the event tab to see what events are being held at your competition. Events will often have time limits. If you think you can solve in less than that time then you can compete.
What do I need to know before the competition day?
Before attending a competition you should read and understand the WCA regulations. We also recommend that you watch this helpful competitor guide and read this competition tutorial.
Do I use my own puzzles to compete?
Yes! Make sure to bring your own puzzles for all events you are competing in. There are 1000s of puzzles at these events so make sure you keep yours with you at all times.
How can I change my EVENTS?
Each competition will have a cut-off date for changing events, generally a week before. Use this form to advise us of your changes
I want to Film my solves, is that allowed?
Many competitors film their efforts during competitions. There are also often parents taking photos or video recordings. There are a few important rules to remember. Do NOT not use flash, spectators MUST be 1.5M away from the solving station and competitors MUST NOT be able to see the screen of the camera.
Can I help out at a competition?
Of course! Throughout the day we will need judges and runners so please see our delegates and organisers to ask how you can best assist.
I am not Quite ready to compete, Can I come watch?
Yes! We encourage and welcome spectators. It is often a good idea to come to a competition to see what it is all about. It can look a bit chaotic at first but they are well organised and everyone is very friendly!
Where do I find my results?
Competitor times will be uploaded throughout the competition onto WCALive. Please allow up to an hour from finishing your solves to them being uploaded. After the competition has finished and all results are verified, they are added to the WCA results database.