Junior chess tournament in Penrith a post-lockdown success

Organised by the Cumbria Chess Association, it took place at Long Marton Community School near Penrith on September 30.

There were two competitions – under 18 and under 13 – which saw equally nail-biting performances.

Johnny Robson became the under 18 champion for Cumbria with an impressive performance, winning out of 15 other players.

This was the second post-lockdown junior chess tournament put on by John Lydon, the association’s junior organiser, who said the entries were over double that of the first.

The under 13 section was contested by 21 players, of which Amoghajay Kashyap won.

Amoghajay Kashyap, under 13 champion, with tournament controller Peter Hanks. (Image: John Lydon)

Mr Lydon said: “The purpose of this tournament is to nurture the young players, help them to become strong players and give every child in Cumbria the chance to become the Cumbria Chess Champion in their age group.

“It provides a gentle introduction to competitive chess with the use of time clocks and tournament rules and structure.

“These young players are the future of the game.

“The Cumbria Chess Association thanks Long Marton Community School for hosting this year’s event, and thanks teacher John Davis in particular who gave up his Saturday to allow access.

“John Davis teaches chess in his school and holds a tournament for local schools every year.”

Mr Lydon presented the school with a donation of chess books as thanks and appreciation.