Students from Thames High School’s chess club are no rook-ies when it comes to the popular game. The club has earned spots in the Chess Power Nationals event, after sweeping the board at regionals on June 7.
Four students, Eric Langeneckert, Immanuel Huwald, Jay Majaurey and Matthew Jones, attended the regional competition at Hauraki Plains College. Eric was placed first in the seniors with 6.5 points and Immanuel came second with 6 points.
Both students qualified for the Champions Trophy for individual players.
The foursome also took out the team event. They placed first with a total score of 22 points, beating Ngaruawahia High School with 19.5 points, and Tuakau College on 19 points. They now qualify for the Chess Power Nationals team event.
The Chess Power Nationals will be held at Alfriston College on October 21 and 22.
Club coach Ruth Howes said the team was looking forward to nationals, and said their next goal would be fundraising to raise the $460 needed to compete.
Meanwhile, Ruth said, the club will be running a series of organised games on Thursdays for students to practise their chess skills, following on from a successful mini-tournament in term one.
