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Google’s global Code Jam 2008 competition, carried out at Google offices: Mountain View, Calif, Seattle, and Brazil, reached its peak, as top programmers grabbed spots for finalists. Top programmers from all-across Americas competed on Monday for the final spots, whereas about 488 programmers reached the semi-finals round.

The competition which started in July this year, saw a participation of 11,000 programmers. The competition had 3 rounds of timed problem solving tasks, specifically designed to test coding and critical thinking skills. The Asia-Pacific region has already selected its winners, and Monday’s competition was based on selecting winners from Americas. Europe, Middle East and Africa will see their winners selected next week.

Although the prize money is worth it, participants are keenly in it for the fun. Finalists will compete for more than $80,000 in cash prizes. The first prize being: $10,000, whereas the second spot winners will receive $5,000. Other participants will also receive cash prizes. Google has also been busy offering job interviews to all semifinalists.

The contest which has become an yearly event, brings in crowds and offers great opportunities for individuals looking to excel in the field of programming. Jeanne Williams, running the Code Jam program for Google, insists that the competition isn’t necessarily about recruiting new talent, though it’s a nice side benefit.