This year, the Rubik’s cube is celebrating its 50th anniversary! Created in the 1970s, this multicolored cube continues to fascinate young and old throughout the world. For the occasion, Aces spoke with Elliott Kobelansky, a 19-year-old from Montreal who can solve the cube blindfolded in record time!
At what age did your passion for the Rubik’s cube begin?
I solved my first cube when I was 6 years old. I’ve always loved doing puzzles, and we had a Rubik’s cube lying around at home, so I went online to find out how to solve it. I found it really fun and I haven’t stopped since!
Do you always have a Rubik’s cube with you?
When I was younger, yes! Now with the lessons [il étudie en sciences naturelles et en musique]I have less time, so I leave it at home!
How did you feel when you broke the blind 3×3 world record last year?
I admit that I cried a little! I never thought I would break a world record, so it was pretty incredible. I couldn’t believe it! It was a bit like a childhood dream. I had trained a lot, I had put so much effort into it, it was a really great time.
How do you train?
When I’m training seriously for a competition, I do a minimum of 200 to 300 resolutions per day, which takes about four hours. There is also a theoretical side because you have to learn algorithms and combinations to be as efficient as possible. Other than that, I don’t do any particular exercise, but I also play the piano and it sure helps me strengthen my joints and my forearms.
What are your next challenges?
I am preparing for several local competitions in Montreal and Ottawa. This summer, I will also go to the North American championship in Minneapolis, United States.
Good luck Elliott!
Quick questions:
On the cube, what is your favorite color?
The Red !
Among all the Rubik’s cubes, which one is your favorite?
I’m going to say the classic, the 3×3, because that’s what I started with.
How many Rubik’s cubes do you have at home?
Around 150!
Émeric Épaud, Les Aces de l’info
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