2025-08-27

My very first speed challenge took place during the afternoon of August 27, 20205. The lighting was perfect, I put on my very favourite movie score, and locked it in. I can’t say I had a strategy going in to the puzzle, except to try and complete sections of a similar colour first, instead of going the usual route and starting with the border. In hindsight, I don’t think it was a bad option, but as soon as the challenge was over I knew I had a lot to learn and, most importantly, a strong appetite to do so.

About halfway through the time limit (90 minutes), I was sure I would fail miserably. I had no illusions about finishing the puzzle, but I really hoped I could at least get most of the pieces down in time. It’s amazing what can happen in the last 20 minutes or so, and I’m glad I kept my cool and changed strategy often. If the tower was giving me too much trouble, I switched to the signage, and when I was stuck on that, I moved on to the windows.

By the end of the 90 minute time limit, I had 29 pieces left. I know that with a minute or two more I could have finished it, but I was still extremely pleased with the result. I also knew I could do much better with a bit of practice and a better strategy.

Puzzle Stats

Brand: Ravensburger

Name: Evening in Pisa

Time to completion: 90 minutes - 29 pieces