London calling for young chess stars
Wednesday 12 October 2011
Published on Wednesday 12 October 2011 09:13
TWO talented youngsters will be looking to make the right moves when they take on a former chess world champion.
Victoria Lynn, 10, and Caitlin Jobling, nine, who are both pupils at Throston Primary School, in Hartlepool, only started playing chess two years ago but their outstanding performances have earned them a trip to London.
The girls play chess as part of an after-school club but have also represented the school in a number of Teesside-wide competitions.
Their impressive performances have been recognised and they have been chosen to join four other youngsters from Teesside and fellow chess players from across the country in an event next week at Westminster.
There they will get the opportunity to pit their wits against Garry Kasparov, widely thought of as the best chess player ever, as well as former world championship challenger Nigel Short.
“I can’t wait for next week,” said Victoria, who lives in the Throston area of Hartlepool with her parents, Michael and Nicola, and younger sister Emily, three.
“I really enjoy playing the game so I was so pleased when I found out we had the chance to go and play there.”
Victoria was introduced to the game of chess by her dad, who has played the game for a number of years.
In fact, Michael once played Nigel Short in a competition, but fell just short of victory.
“It’s brilliant that my dad has played against him and now I get the chance to meet him,” added Victoria.
“I don’t think I will be able to beat him either though.”
Caitlin had just started to play chess at home with her mum, Debbie, when she found out about the school starting a new chess club.
She enjoyed the game, joined the club and hasn’t looked back.
Caitlin, who lives in the Throston area of Hartlepool with Debbie and dad, Darryl, said: “When I started, I never thought I would get to go to London to play.
“I really like playing chess, it’s good fun and it works on your patience and concentration skills.
“I think it will be a great day.”
The event is taking place next Tuesday, October 18 and is celebrating a successful first year for the Chess in Schools and Communities charity.
The charity encourages the teaching and playing of chess in schools and organises and promotes a number of events.
Source: http://www.hartlepoolmail.co.uk
What are their ratings?