World Puzzle federation started off with international championship WPC (World Puzzle Championship) in early 90s to recognize the global talents. Since its inception, it has come a long way with almost 40+ countries being the member, some active while some inactive. This year the event was organized by Brazil and was held in Rio de Janeiro. Their official web site is located at http://www.coquetel.com.br/wpc2007/
India has been one of the top emerging countries since they started participating in 2000. Though the progress has not that been incredible till last year, but this year has been like a begining of a dream run. Not only did they beat last year's record, but beat by miles. This was the best ever performance from Indian team, which not only recognizes the Indian brains but also adds to its image as an emerging threat for the top countries. Though topping the chart may not happen in coming 3-4 years, but the manner in which activities are progressing it holds good for optimists.
The official results are still awaited, and there is a hope that the organizer would do something in that regard sooner than later. After having followed World Sudoku Championship (another event organized by WPF) live on internet and result updates coming quite blazingly fast, very much same was expected from Brazillian organizers. They didn't live upto the expectation, and even after a day after the event is over, results aren't availalble. (I coudn't find any link from the official site).
Unofficial results are available (courtesy Hendrik Hardeman, Captain Team India).
Individual ranking (95 participants):
1. PAL MADARASSY 2031
2. THOMAS SNYDER 2280
3. ULRICH VOIGT 2129
28. AMIT SOWANI 1850
66. RITESH GUPTA 1599
68. RAJESH KUMAR 1582
74. SUMIT BOTHRA 1531
Note that points for top three are those before semi-finals / finals.
Team ranking (23 complete teams):
1. USA 10714
2. JAPAN 9670
3. BELGIUM 9083
13. INDIA 8057
Ending with a note of congratulations to Indian Team. Good show and hoping the trend continues.
[Author has been member of Indian Team in WPC'2005 & WPC'2006 & WSC'2006]
