Vianney Chess Team Takes 3rd At Nationals

Vianney was the defending K-12 Under 1200 Champion, having won the title last year. Vianney won national titles at the 2009 and 2011 Chess Championships as well.

The Griffin chess team pushed its way up on the leaderboard over the three-day event, and on two occasions were tied for first place. All eight Vianney players opened the tournament with first-round victories, which put the team among the leaders on the first day.

Vianney finished with 21 points in the tournament, a point total which would have won the national title last year, according to Baur.

“That just goes to show you how tough the competition level was at the national tournament,” he said.

Lyons, a senior, brought home the individual title. He won six games and played to a draw in the final round.

“There were some good players there but I guess I was just on my game,” he said. “Winning the national title in my senior year is very gratifying. Vianney chess made a big impact on me over the past four years and this is a great way to go out – on top.”

Source: http://www.southcountytimes.com