A resident from the Greater Toronto Area has emerged victorious at the World Jigsaw Puzzle Championship in the over 60 age group, marking the first Canadian to achieve this milestone. Vicki Richardson’s passion for puzzles stemmed from early childhood when she bonded with her father over deciphering puzzle pieces. Little did she know that years later, she would be representing Canada in a prestigious puzzle competition held in Spain.
After setting aside puzzles during her late teens to focus on education and family, Richardson rediscovered her love for them upon retirement in April 2023. Joining the Canadian Jigsaw Puzzle Association, she delved back into puzzling alongside her daughter, passing down the tradition to her grandchildren.
Participating in the World Jigsaw Puzzle Championship in Valladolid, Spain, Richardson highlighted the rigorous nature of the event, where speed puzzlers from around the world gather to showcase their skills. Completing a specially crafted 500-piece puzzle within an hour, Richardson’s dedication to practice and honing her skills paid off, earning her international recognition.
Reflecting on her achievement, Richardson emphasized the importance of continuous practice, allowing her to complete puzzles swiftly. Her daughter, Tracy Nonomura, expressed immense pride in her mother’s accomplishment, reminiscing about their shared love for puzzles and how Richardson’s sharp cognitive abilities persisted even after retirement.
The significance of engaging in mentally stimulating activities like jigsaw puzzles in older age was underscored by psychology professor Lixia Yang. Yang emphasized the cognitive benefits of such activities, promoting brain health and advocating for an active mindset in aging individuals.
As Richardson basks in her victory, her story serves as a testament to the timeless appeal of puzzles and the positive impact of staying mentally engaged as one ages.
