Three puzzles of increasing difficulty will be solved by all contestants in a timed fashion. There will be a 20 minute time limit for competing each puzzle.
The puzzles will be scored using a system similar to that used by the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament with points being awarded for both accuracy and speed of solving. The rules will be described in detail before the competition begins on July 9, 2011.
The top 3 scorers during the preliminary competiton will be asked to solve the fourth and most difficult puzzle on large easels in front of the other competitors to decide the champion of the tournament. The first of the three finalists to finish with a perfect grid will be the winner of the event.
First Prize = $100 visa gift card and trophy
Second Prize=$50 visa gift card and trophy
Third Prize= $25 visa gift card and trophy
Special Prizes will be awarded to the top Junior finsher(under 25), the top 60 to 70 year old competitor and the top 70 and older competitor. The competitor with the neatest handwriting(as determined by the judges) will also be recognized.
A prize will be awarded for the top score in the trivia portion of the competition. Random drawings will be held for other crossword related prizes during the event.
