Among the occupations of those competing this year are teachers, lawyers, computer programmers, a judge, disc jockey, auto worker and nanny. What they have in common are a love of words, flexible minds and knowledge on all sorts of subjects. A good crossword player has a grab-bag mind. Shortz estimates 50 million Americans do crossword puzzles. The tournament is a means for solvers to get together and see how good they are.
Some people come and take it seriously, wanting to win the top prize.
But most come to meet other players. Last year, he entered his first tournament. He finished 10th among rookies and 97th overall in a field of 230. There were no attitudes. Joining Norris at this year's competition will be John Chervokas, executive director of the Greater Ossining Chamber of Commerce.