The tournament starts at 7:30 and ends at 9:45, at which time there is a wine and cheese reception. This is a really fun event that I have attended the last four years. It's a nice chance to meet and schmooze with Will Shortz. Last year, Sam Ezersky (author of the NYT Spelling Bee and Letter Boxed puzzles) and Joel Fagliano (author of the NYT Mini puzzle) were there as well. If you've ever wondered what a crossword puzzle tournament is like, this is a great one to go to without the pressure of hundreds of people like some of the major tournaments.
Full details are available HERE and I've reproduced them below as well.
If you decide to go, please try to find me and introduce yourself. I think they have name tags, but if not, just look for a 6-foot tall red-headed 14-year-old, who is my son Sam, and I will be nearby (he is much more distinct-looking and easier to notice than me ).Westchester Table Tennis Club
175 Tompkins Avenue, Pleasantville, NY (914) 741-0738
Fri., Sept. 20 (7:30-9:45pm)
Where: Side room
Time: 7:30 - 9:45 p.m., immediately followed by a reception
Details: Solvers will race to do four unpublished crosswords from The New York Times — a Monday puzzle (15 minutes), Tuesday (20 minutes), and Wednesday (20 minutes). The fastest correct solver from each round will advance to a playoff, featuring a Thursday puzzle, solved on large boards for everyone to watch. Contestants may compete either individually or in pairs. Hosted by Will Shortz.
Prizes: Trophies and puzzle books will be awarded to the best overall solvers, as well as the best solvers in each of these categories: 25 years or under, 60 years or over, Pleasantville resident, and first-time contestant. Prizes will also be given to the best solvers working in pairs. Book prizes are provided courtesy of St. Martin's Press.
Reception: Beer, wine, cheese, fruit, and delicious desserts, offered to all contestants courtesy of the Pleasantville Fund for Learning.
Cost: $40 (individual) or $50 (for a pair)
Registration: At the door
All proceeds go to the Pleasantville Fund for Learning, which for 25 years has supported educational innovation in Pleasantville schools through grants to teachers and students.