The Moment That Started It All
1st Rubik’s Cube World Championship, Budapest, 1982
In June 1982, the world’s fastest cube solvers gathered in Budapest for the first official Rubik’s Cube World Championship — a historic event that would launch a global competitive movement. Representing the United States, Minh Thai demonstrated exceptional concentration and problem-solving skill under pressure.
Facing top competitors from around the world, he delivered a winning solve of 22.95 seconds, securing his place in history as the first-ever Rubik’s Cube World Champion.
Video Credit: Ron Van Bruchem, Founder of World Cube Association
That’s Incredible The Show’s 1st Annual Cube-A-Thon
In 1981, Minh Thai captured national attention by winning first place at That’s Incredible!’s televised “Cube-A-Thon” event. Competing against other top solvers during the height of the Rubik’s Cube craze, he demonstrated remarkable speed, precision, and composure under studio lights and a live audience. His victory not only showcased his exceptional talent but also helped introduce competitive cube solving to millions of viewers across the United States — setting the stage for his historic world championship win the following year.