The present invention describes an apparatus and method for timing manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination competitions. Specifically, the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for timing cup stacking competitions. The apparatus of the present invention includes a mat which may incorporate a timer and the cups which are to be stacked on the mat. One embodiment of the present invention includes a multi-pieced timing mechanism which may be selectively interconnected to a mat. Further, a plurality of these timing mechanisms may be used remotely from the mat or with the mat such that a plurality of players may be used in individual mats.