Merebank learners make their move at chess tournament
Young chess enthusiasts from Merebank clashed in an intense chess tournament at Nizam Road Primary School in hopes of claiming the top spot for their schools.
ON September 7, the Nizam Road Primary School hall was alive with enthusiasm as young learners engaged in a highly contested chess tournament. Organised by Nizam Educare Centre, in partnership with Ward 68 committee member for sports, Alex Uys, the event brought together primary school learners from across Merebank, showcasing remarkable talent and determination.
Also read: Teach your child to play chess with these easy moves
Three schools participated in the tournament: St Mary’s Primary School, Alipore Road Primary and Nizam Road Primary. Despite having less than nine months to master the game, the learners demonstrated impressive skills and a strong sense of competitiveness.
Sunil Rampershad, one of the event coordinators, highlighted the tournament’s goal of fostering a love for chess among the learners while promoting sportsmanship and strategic thinking.
“The atmosphere was incredible, with participants showing strong competitiveness. Considering that most of the learners just started learning chess this year, their determination to compete without fear of defeat was truly inspiring,” said Rampershad.
The match pairings were determined through a random draw conducted by parents, who picked names out of a hat, ensuring a fair and exciting competition.
St Mary’s Primary School emerged triumphant, claiming both first and second places in the tournament. Madval Puran from St Mary’s Primary was declared the overall winner, demonstrating exceptional skill and strategy. Alipore Road Primary took third place, while Nizam Road Primary finished in fourth.
Rampershad emphasised that the tournament was about more than just winning; it was also about community involvement and support. “We acknowledge the dedication of the teachers and coordinators who assisted throughout the event, the principal and management staff of Nizam Road Primary School for providing the venue, and the parents and spectators who supported the young players,” he said.
As the event concluded, Rampershad expressed hopes for the future, encouraging more learners to take up chess. Students interested in learning to play chess in 2025 are invited to contact Sunil Rampersadh at 083 632 4312 or Pastor Victor at 073 510 0011.
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