Records with the Bhutan Chess Federation show more youth taking interest in chess, however, an inter-school chess competition in Thimphu saw minimal participation from the schools recently. Of about 30 schools in Thimphu, only six schools took part in the two-day inter-school invitational team chess championship.
Fifteen teams from six schools in Thimphu took part in the chess championship that ended on Wednesday. According to Bhutan Chess Federation, although they have e-mailed the schools about the tournament, very few schools turned up for it.
“Chess revival is quite new so many are not aware of it. Although we emailed them, I think they are still not aware. Secondly, I think it is because of the Tshechu holidays. Although interested, some may want to take the holidays. But, this is the first time, so we cannot expect so much. But it was a good opportunity to learn about team matches,” said Ugyen Wangchuk, the General Secretary of the Bhutan Chess Federation.
However, he said the participants are all aspiring chess players with talents. Students as young as seven years old took part in the tournament.
“It is interesting and I feel calm when I play chess,” said Jeme Rinchen Norbu, a seven-year-old student from Zilukha MSS.
“I like chess because I feel very happy. When I win a match, I feel happy, and when I lose, I strive to do better next time so that I can become a grandmaster. My wish is to become a grandmaster,” said Tandin Tshering Tashi, from Kuzhugchen MSS.
“I especially wanted to join chess because it is so much fun. It started two years ago when I saw my father play. It was so interesting so I also wanted to play,” added Tshelha Tshering Yangtsho, from Dr Tobgyel School.
While Team One of Dr Tobgyel School won the championship, Team Pieces of Glory from Kuzhugchen Middle Secondary School was the first runners-up followed by Team Three from Dr Tobgyel School. The winners received certificates, medals, and cash prizes.
The Bhutan Chess Federation is also planning for an online national competition very soon.
Kinley Dem
Edited by Sonam
