Starting them young, 19 federations are participating in the Asian Youth Championship in Hikkaduwa, a beach resort down south of Sri Lanka. A total of 308 boys and girls are competing in seven age groups, under-8, 10, 12, 14, 16 and 18 for Open and girls. A kindergarten championship is being held for the under-6.
In photo above, Hon. Bandula Gunawardane, Minister of Education, makes the ceremonial moves with Harshana Thilakaratne who tied for first place in the World Youth Championship 2011 in Brazil. Looking on are, Sri Lanka Chess Federation president Mr. Upali Gunasekera and Secretary Luxman Wijesuriya, Zone President and Organizing Committee chairman and Asian Chess Federation Deputy President Casto Abundo.
Visit chess-results.com for results and standings of the rapid chess tournament.
Good one for kids.