3.14 and counting: 10-year-old breaks record for most decimal Pi digits recalled

Pi Day, celebrated annually on 14 March (3.14 – a reference to the mathematical constant π or Pi), is more than just a clever nod to the most famous digits in mathematics.

It’s also an opportunity for maths enthusiasts around the world to showcase their skills, and this year, a 10-year-old memory master set a new world record for the most decimal places of Pi recalled in one minute, with an impressive 280.

Alberto Davila Aragon from Bristol, UK, recalls the occasion that led to his record attempt:

“In March 2024, my school organized an exciting Pi digits competition with an amazing prize: the chance to pie our Headmaster in the face!

“Determined to win, I went home and committed myself to memorizing as many digits of Pi as I could.

“I emerged as the winner of the competition, having memorized an impressive 150 digits of Pi. The moment finally arrived when I got to pie our Headmaster […]!

“It was an exhilarating experience, and I'm grateful to our Headmaster for creating such a fun and inspiring challenge that motivated me to test my memory skills.”

This was only the start of Alberto's record-breaking journey.

Motivated by his initial success, he continued to push himself, learning even more of Pi's digits and improving his speed, until he was ready to challenge the world record.

When that moment arrived, his parents helped him organize the event.

They got in touch with Bristol University in the search of a mathematician, with local sports clubs in search of experienced timekeepers and a professional witness.

“Then, we wanted an iconic location for this record, one that was significant to me,” Alberto explained.

“From the [Clifton] observatory, the view of the iconic suspension bridge is amazing – I cross that bridge every day on my journey to school.

“I love school, and I’m also a great student – just a bit chatty, according to my teachers!”

For the attempt, Alberto was blindfolded, with a whistle used to signal both the start and the end of the timing.

“It was a very windy day in Bristol,” he recalls, “but since everything was confirmed, we carried on with the event.”

Being a singer and music lover, Alberto used rhythms and patterns to help him memorize the digits, alongside breathing patters to optimize the speed of reciting the numbers.

“[It] has been an exciting challenge, and I believe anyone, regardless of age, can attempt to break [this record],” the student shared.

“Through this experience, I’ve discovered the incredible benefits of sharpening memory skills.”

Taking great pride in his achievement, Alberto wishes to inspire others to pursue their potential: 

“I hope my journey inspires others to take on this challenge and sharpen their memory skills.

“Who knows, with some luck and a good-natured Headmaster, they might even get the chance to pie someone in the face too.”

Let’s just hope the Headmaster enjoyed the pie!