Winnipeg Crossword Enthusiast Competes Globally, Excels in Tournament

Sam Doucet, a crossword puzzle enthusiast from Winnipeg, has gained international recognition for his skills in the challenging world of wordplay. His passion for language, nurtured in a bilingual home, has driven him to excel in crossword competitions, culminating in a notable performance at the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament held in Stamford, Connecticut last year.

Doucet’s journey into the realm of crosswords began as a teenager in Edmonton. He has since developed a routine that sees him completing around 15 puzzles a day. His repertoire includes various online publications and renowned newspapers, particularly the New York Times crossword puzzle. “A crossword is an experience like no other,” Doucet remarked. “It offers endless connections for your brain to make, resulting in those satisfying ‘a-ha!’ moments.”

Five years ago, Doucet expanded his crossword passion by engaging with online communities and participating in competitions. These events allow participants to solve crosswords in real-time, fostering a sense of camaraderie and competition. “They’re a ton of fun, and it’s a great way to track your progress and measure yourself against others,” he noted.

At the tournament in 2023, which he likened to the “World Series of crosswords,” Doucet achieved remarkable success. He not only topped the rookie division but also finished 41st overall out of nearly 800 participants. Reflecting on his performance, he stated, “It worked out better than I could have dreamed.”

For those interested in diving into the world of crosswords, Doucet offers practical advice. He encourages newcomers to embrace the learning process and not shy away from looking up answers. “When you’re getting into crosswords, especially if you’re younger and may not have a broad vocabulary or pop culture references, don’t be afraid to look up the answer. It’s your puzzle; solve it however you want,” he advised.

Doucet particularly enjoys crosswords from the New York Times, the New Yorker, and those created by puzzle constructors such as Matthew Luter, Brendan Emmett Quigley, and Stella Zawistowski. He believes that we are currently experiencing a golden age of crosswords. “There’s such an incredible wealth of puzzles being made right now,” he said, noting the variety of newspapers, publications, and blogs dedicated to the craft.

As his story illustrates, the world of crossword puzzles is not just a solitary endeavor; it is a vibrant community that continues to grow. Doucet’s journey from a young enthusiast to an international competitor serves as an inspiration for aspiring crossword solvers everywhere.