Chess gaining popularity

Monday, 16 March 2009

Source: http://solomonstarnews.com/



SOLOMON Islands Chess Federation (SICF) is planning to host a competition this Easter in preparation for the Oceania Chess Championship in Australia June this year.


SICF Secretary Anthony Maelasi revealed this after the federation’s meeting at the Bokolo Training Centre yesterday.

“The Oceania Chess President has encouraged SICF to participate in the championship,” he said.

Chess is a game of strategy and it helps to develop critical thinking skills, problem solving, analytical skills, strategic planning and a whole lot more.

Chess used to be popular years back and the federation is trying to revive an interest in the game in a more organised manner.

The SICF elected its executive last year and is now a member of the World Chess Federation.

Maelasi said the SICF are under Asia Chess Federation.

“We are planning to start small with competition in Honiara in preparation for regional championship in June.

“The SICF were boosted with donation from the PNG Chess Federation,” he said.

PNG Chess Federation donated ten chess sets to the SICF last year and another 20 this year.

The donation is to help and develop the sports in the country.

Since the inception, chess has gained recognition and support from the National Sports Council.

The interest is also widespread. Maelasi said already Chung Wah School and Woodford School is starting a chess club.

Other schools are encouraged to take up the sport. The SICF usually have their games every Sunday from 3-6pm at the Cafe Tortila at Point Cruz.


By PHILIP LILOMO

Chess Daily News from Susan Polgar
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