PLAYING TO WIN: Harry Cummins and Ethan Phipps were among over 40 schoolchildren who took part in the junior chess tournament in Orange on Thursday. Photo: STEVE GOSCH 0124sgchess1
BROWS were furrowed with deep concentration on Thursday when a junior chess tournament was held in Orange.
Over 40 schoolchildren from across the central west competed at St Barnabas’ Anglican Church parish hall with games timed to the last second.
Long-time chess player Peter Dixon, 15, from Millthorpe was among the children lining up to play.
"A lot of people I've met and have become friends with are from the tournaments," he said.
Seven-year-old Mitchell Peters, from Bathurst, was one of the youngest players on the day. When the Central Western Daily visited during the morning session Mitchell said he had not won a game as yet but was still hopeful.
Junior chess tournament co-ordinator Joe Cummins said it was a great event for schoolchildren.
"It's good for your brain and good for your social skills," he said.
"Anyone can play regardless of their playing capabilities.
"There's no luck, it's a very logical game."
Mr Cummins said despite their age there were some good players among the group.
“There's an 11-year-old you've got to fear,” he said.
The junior chess tournament is held in Orange each school holidays
Children came from the Blue Mountains, Dubbo, Molong, Millthorpe, Blayney and Orange to take part.
Winners oft the School Holiday Junior Chess Tournament:
Under 18s
1st Nikhil Rajesh - Dubbo
2nd Peter Dixon - Millthorpe
3rd Jonathon Harding - Molong
Under 12s
1st Lachlan Roach - Bathurst
2nd Aymey-May Rymer - Wellington
3rd Hannah Smith - Mt Victoria
nadine.morton@fairfaxmedia.com.au
