Can’t remember where you put your car keys? A telephone number? Directions? Well, for those who seem to remember every single thing, the 7th Annual U.S.A. Memory Championship competition is for them. Contestants will be putting their memory to the test Saturday, February 28, 2004 at Con Edison’s Grand Auditorium, 4 Irving Place, New York City from 9am – 5pm.    

“Mental Athletes” – will attempt to memorize the following in 5 to 15 minute time periods (depending on event):

•1000 digit number
•500 words
•99 names and faces
•An unpublished, unrhymed poem
•Shuffled deck of cards

Three-time (2001, 2002, and 2003) champion Scott Hagwood of Fayetteville, North Carolina, returns to defend his title. Several years ago, Scott was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. During his treatment, he studied books and memory techniques to help pass the time and to keep his mind occupied, toned, and sharp. “I consider myself of very average intelligence,” notes Scott. “If I can do it, anyone can.”

According to Tony Dottino, chairman and founder of the U.S.A Memory Championship, expert in memory techniques, business innovation, and creativity in the workplace, “the number of mental feats accomplished by our contestants never ceases to amaze us.” Whether they are students from New Jersey, actors from California or secretaries from New York City, the Memory competition gets tougher every year.”

The incoming 2004 U.S.A. Memory Champion will be invited to compete in the 2004 World Memory Championships in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on September 3, 4, and 5.

For information and to register for the 2004 U.S.A. Memory Championship, visit the official web site at www.usamemoriad.com or call 718-899-3056.