Hayward to welcome Rubik’s Cube Elite

(HAYWARD, CA) – When Erno Rubik invented his eponymous cube puzzle in 1974, it took him a full month to solve it after scrambling it up. When some of the world’s most accomplished “speedcubers” descend on Hayward City Hall on November 7, the best will complete the 3x3 square cube in less than 10 seconds.

The 2015 “Rubik’s Rumble” is a family-friendly event with elements of breakneck competition, community- generated art and a healthy dose of education, all centered on the bestselling toy of all time: the colorful and perplexing Rubik’s Cube.

“There’s something magical about the Rubik’s Cube,” said Frank Holland, spokesperson for the City of Hayward. “It’s approachable and incomprehensible at the same time. Even though most people can’t solve it, there’s hardly anyone who hasn’t picked one up and given it a try.”

The Rumble, sanctioned by the World Cube Association (WCA), will feature a heated speed-solving competition in which speedcubers – most of them high school and college students – battle to complete the puzzle as quickly as possible. Some will do so using only one hand, others while blindfolded. Meanwhile, in the light-filled City Hall rotunda, internationally recognized Hayward artist Pete Fecteau will spend the day directing the production of a
1,000-cube mosaic mural, assembled cube-by-cube with help from event attendees and competitors. Event
organizers will also provide a short Q & A session for novices eager to learn the secret to solving the cube while blindfolded.

“We’re excited to bring the 2015 Rubik’s Rumble to Hayward,” said Holland. “Every aspect of the event is jaw dropping, from the almost impossibly fast competitors to Pete Fecteau’s award-winning artwork. The educational angle can’t be overstated either; we hope to see a good turnout among young people from Hayward and beyond with an interest in math or puzzles.”

The event will begin at 10:00 a.m. at Hayward City Hall, with the Farmer’s Market going on simultaneously right outside. Competition heats and the assembly of Fecteau’s Cube mural will take place throughout the day, leading to the finals at 4:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers. The finals will also be televised on KHRT Channel 15 for those unable to attend in person.

DETAILS:

WHAT: Rubik’s Rumble 2015 – WCA-sanctioned Rubik’s Cube event, featuring competition, cube art and education.

WHEN: Saturday, November 7, 2015. Event kicks off at 10:00 a.m., main event (competition finals)
begins at 4:30 p.m.

WHERE: Hayward City Hall, 777 B Street, Hayward CA 94541 (Just a few steps from Hayward BART!)

WHO: Rubik’s Cube enthusiasts, families and all who love math, puzzles, competition and art are warmly welcomed and invited to attend.

DETAILS: For details about the competition itself, please contact organizer April Chan, abchan@mindspring.com, 510.566.3909. Competitors wishing to register may do so at http://www.cubingusa.com/rubiksrumble2015.

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About Rubik’s Cube®

Since its launch in 1980, the Rubik's Cube® has twisted and turned its way into over 350 million hands worldwide and has continued to fascinate, bewilder and challenge millions of people. You Can Do The Rubik’s Cube  is a
U.S. educational, community outreach program in 10,000+ schools teaching youth how to solve the Rubik's Cube and experience the many benefits of this accomplishment. Math, STEM and Art lessons have been designed using the Rubik's Cube to help teachers engage students with an interactive and tangible way to learn critical math concepts as well as 21st Century skills. Learn more at YouCanDoTheCube.com
Rubik's Brand Ltd owns all rights worldwide to the world famous Rubik's Cube®. Rubik’s Cube® is a registered trademark of Rubik’s Brand Ltd