New world record set for solving a Rubik’s Cube

published 22 June 2023

A 21-year-old from California has broken the world record for fastest time solving a Rubik’s Cube. Max Park, who was diagnosed with moderate to severe autism as a toddler, pulled off the feat in just 3.134 seconds, at an event in the US. Like all “speedcubers”, he’d been allowed to spend a few seconds looking at the puzzle first. Park was taught how to solve a Rubik’s Cube at the age of nine by his mother, who was looking for ways to refine his fine motor skills. Attending competitions turned out to also help his social development, as he learnt how to take turns, stand in queues, and greet new people.

Amazon to hire 5,000 refugees in Europe

Amazon has pledged to hire at least 5,000 Ukrainian and other refugees across Europe over the next three years, as part of a wider drive to support people fleeing persecution. The scheme is being coordinated by the charity Tent Partnership for Refugees, and 40 firms have signed up to it, including Hilton, Marriott and Starbucks. They have committed to hire more than 13,000 refugees between them. In addition, agencies such as Adecco have pledged to help 152,000 refugees find work.

Man becomes oldest Briton to run 100 marathons

A man who had so many health problems he was told to “never run” has become the oldest Briton to complete 100 marathons. Martin Ward, 64, suffered two collapsed lungs in his 20s, and was blighted by severe back problems in his 30s. When he registered as disabled, doctors told him to “keep fit but never run – certainly not a marathon”; but earlier this month in Milton Keynes, he joined the exclusive 100 Marathon Club, a group made up of around 500 people who have run 100 marathons or more.