It was great to return to the club after holidays to see all our enthusiastic keen chess players come along to learn and play chess. We had a total of 22 juniors over the course of the two sessions.
It was pleasing to see a full compliment of coaches at the sessions, Steve/Tony/Azhar/Paul and Martin, well done team and delivering successful chess lessons over the last few weeks.
One or two of our juniors decided to have a rest as they are playing the Dorset Junior Championships today – we wish all our 11 entrants the very best of luck. It is really worthwhile to compete against other juniors not only in our area but in as many events as possible to gauge levels and experience over the board.
Peter in deep concentration v Lathijan
Sam trying to find the right answer v Nathaniel
1st session games in full progress with Tony and Azhar observing.
Yesterday, in our 1st session Tony our puzzle king varied levels of puzzles which were mostly solved and a special mention to Sam who did especially well. It was also good to Sam stay for both sessions to gain more knowledge and game time, well done Sam.
Pavina/Rafan/Nirvan and Markas were coached by Steve/Azhar/Paul and Eric which all went well and we sincerely hope we have added value to their various abilities. Achieving check mate was a theme of the day.
Second session advanced session was taken by Martin who went through a number of beautiful puzzles that stretched Carlo, Arthur and Sam who did well to find the solutions.
Azhar concentrated on teaching notation for Zara/Zayaan and one or two of others.
Steve spent time with Nilay whom were delighted to see for her 2nd session and pleased she has signed up to come continuously.
Other welcome Juniors were Nicolas, Oakley/Holly and James.
Ladder Boards 8/3/25
Peter maintained his lead in the advanced section with a nice win over Lathujan and he is looking strong now but also its pleasing to see Lathujan competing at this level and improving.
Nathanial found a way to break through Sam’s defences and win his game.
Also a good win victory for Nicolas over Neil.
Nirvan had an excellent win over ladder board leader Pavina in the Intermediate section, well done Nirvan and again really good to see the progress you are making.
In the 2nd session Zara played a strong game against Eric and was awarded a win for her depth and general good play in this game. Zayaan also gained a good win over Arthur.
Chess Masters: the Endgame on BBC 2
BBC 2 are stating a new series tomorrow night – 10/3 at 8pm which is also showed on the I player. This is a must watch for all budding chess players and the format will be similar to the Masterchef series where one player is eliminated each week. It proves to be exciting and worthwhile and the first chess series to be broadcast for many years.
I hope you will watch it.
Keep practicing in the week and we look forward to seeing you next Saturday 15/3.
Eric Sachs