A resident from the Greater Toronto Area has achieved victory in the World Jigsaw Puzzle Championship in the category for those over 60 years old. This individual, Vicki Richardson, is the first Canadian to secure this prestigious title.
Richardson’s passion for puzzles dates back to her childhood, where she fondly recalls assisting her father in piecing together puzzles. Little did she know that years later, she would be representing Canada in a puzzle championship held in Spain.
After putting aside puzzles during her late teens to focus on education and family, Richardson rediscovered her love for puzzling upon retiring in April 2023. She joined the Canadian Jigsaw Puzzle Association, sharing the hobby with her daughter and passing on the tradition to her grandchildren.
Participating in the World Jigsaw Puzzle Championship in Valladolid, Spain, Richardson emphasized the rigorous nature of the competition, where participants are timed and ranked. Completing a specially designed 500-piece puzzle in just over an hour, she showcased her exceptional skills, honed through diligent practice.
Despite her success, Richardson remains humble, attributing her achievement to consistent practice and dedication to mastering various puzzle types. Her daughter, Tracy Nonomura, expressed immense pride in her mother’s accomplishment, highlighting Richardson’s sharp cognitive abilities and continuous passion for puzzles.
Experts like Lixia Yang, a psychology professor at Toronto Metropolitan University, affirm the cognitive benefits of engaging in mentally stimulating activities like jigsaw puzzles as one ages. Yang emphasizes the importance of maintaining an active mindset and engaging in activities that promote cognitive health in older adulthood.
In essence, Richardson’s triumph serves as a testament to the adage that “age is just a number,” showcasing the enduring benefits of pursuing hobbies that keep the mind sharp and engaged throughout one’s life.