My first competition

What is speedcubing?

Speedcubing is the sport of solving the Rubik's Cube and related puzzles as fast as possible. The World Cube Association (WCA) has run official competitions since 2003: 17 events, one rulebook, the same timers everywhere, and every result becomes a public record.

You do not need to be fast to compete. If you can solve the cube, the seven steps below take you to your first official result.

Your first competition in seven steps

1. Create a WCA account

Sign up for free at worldcubeassociation.org and verify your email. Write your name exactly as on your ID; your WCA ID is created automatically after your first competition.

2. Pick a competition and read its page from top to bottom

Choose a competition from the calendar and open its WCA page. Check: registration opening and closing dates, competitor limit, fee and payment method, events, cutoffs and time limits, address. Reading these before you register is very important!

3. Register

Use the "Register" tab on the WCA page and select your events. If you are under 18, complete the parent/guardian consent box together with your parent (WCA Regulation 2b). Your registration will be approved by the organisers.

4. Learn the rules, rehearse at home

Read the FAQ. Practise with 15 seconds of inspection and a timer. If you want to learn the rules in more detail, have a look at the WCA Regulations.

5. Pack your bag

If it is your first competition, you must bring an ID such as an identity card, a driving licence or a passport. The ID is used to confirm the details you gave when registering with the WCA and to correct them if needed. Do not forget to bring your cubes for the events you will compete in! No cubes are handed out at the competition, but if you need one, you can ask our organisers.

6. Competition day

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your first event; give your name at the registration desk and collect your badge. Do not miss the tutorial for new competitors. When your group is called, hand in your cube and wait as the organisers explain. When you are called, do your solves; when you are not competing, volunteer to judge or run. If anything goes wrong, tell a delegate and the organisers.

7. Afterwards

You can see your result on WCA Live during the day; once the competition results are published a few days later, your WCA profile and WCA ID are ready. Follow the next competition in the calendar and subscribe to the newsletter.

Still have questions?

FAQ · For parents · Contact