This past weekend, the 24 Hours of Belgium Puzzle Championship made a triumphant return to Hannut in Liège after a four-year absence caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The much-anticipated annual event, which has attracted puzzle enthusiasts from around the globe since its inception in 1985, saw 126 international teams compete in a thrilling 24-hour marathon of puzzle assembly.
Kicking off on Saturday afternoon at Hannut’s covered market, the championship brought together participants from Belgium, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Czechia, and Portugal, among others.
Notably, a team from Greece joined the competition for the first time, adding to the diverse mix of competitors. Organiser Thomas Matelart highlighted the event’s international spirit, stating, “We also have competitors from Ukraine and Russia.”
To ensure safety amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions, competitors from Ukraine and Russia were kept separate throughout the event. Matelart emphasized the teams’ commitment to focus solely on the competition and avoid any politically charged incidents.
In line with regulations established for international competitions, Russian teams were also prohibited from displaying national symbols.
Throughout the 24-hour challenge, contestants raced to assemble as many puzzles as possible, with an eye on breaking the previous record set in 2019 of 24,119 pieces put together.
As the clock ticked down, teams employed various strategies to maximize their puzzle-solving efficiency, creating a vibrant atmosphere of camaraderie and competition.
The championship concluded at 16:00 on Sunday, marking a successful revival of an event that had become a cherished tradition in the region.
Participants and spectators alike expressed excitement over the return of the championship, which was not only a test of skill but also a celebration of resilience and community spirit in the face of adversity.
The 24 Hours of Belgium Puzzle Championship has always had a philanthropic mission at its core. Originally founded to raise funds for La Passerelle, a residential service for adults with disabilities, the proceeds now also support Inter-Actions, a vital support service, and La Croisette, a meeting and reception space.
Matelart noted, “The event did not take place from 2020 to 2023 due to the health crisis, the post-Covid period, and our organisation’s restructuring,” underscoring the challenges faced during the pandemic.
The atmosphere during the event was electric, with teams rallying around tables adorned with piles of puzzle pieces, some working meticulously in silence while others engaged in lively discussions to strategize their efforts.
Spectators were treated to the sight of eager competitors immersed in their tasks, creating a sense of unity and excitement that permeated the market.
As the championship drew to a close, participants reflected on their experiences, sharing stories of teamwork and determination. The event not only rekindled a beloved tradition but also reinforced the importance of community engagement and support for those in need.
With the successful return of the 24 Hours of Belgium Puzzle Championship, organisers and participants alike are already looking forward to next year’s event, hoping to further break records and strengthen international ties through the universal language of puzzles.