With the junior players going from strength to strength, the last session of 2023 saw the arrival of a team of adult players from the Doncaster and District Chess Association. As a fun tournament, the kids were given a time advantage on the clocks and had to score more points together than the visiting adult team, who were under strict instructions not to go easy on any of the juniors. Many fantastic games took place and the juniors really showed how far they have come to be able to hold their own and even win some of the games against vastly more experienced players.
In the end, the junior team was able to score more points and will retain the trophy for 2024. Congratulations go to Seth, Thomas, and Stefi, who won 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place respectively out of the junior players. Additionally, John Beech won 1st place out of the adults and was kind enough to donate his prize of sweets back to the children.
A huge thank you to everyone who took part! The juniors were brilliant and I really appreciate all the adults who came to support the event, the club, and the development of our next generation of chess stars.
Please see the photo gallery below for pictures of the event.
Local Junior Chess Club player Seth Woozeer has become the first under-18 player to represent Doncaster at the Yorkshire Junior Grand Prix in over a decade. The talented youngster, who has been a core member of the new Doncaster Junior Chess Club, travelled to Bradford this weekend for the first event in the prestigious Yorkshire Junior Grand Prix, and his first ever chess tournament. Despite his inexperience, Seth did exceptionally well, finishing up in 5th in his section and winning the U10 medal.
Speaking about Seth, his coach at the Doncaster Junior Chess Club commented, “Seth is an extremely passionate, gentlemanly, young man who focuses very well and puts in the hard work. He undoubtably deserves this success and I can’t wait to see what else he will accomplish. One day, we may all be celebrating him as a Grandmaster, British Champion, and maybe more!”
Seth will undoubtably be continuing his studies ready for the second event, in Hull, in February and may even be looking to challenge himself further by moving up a section. Everyone here at Doncaster Chess is extremely proud of Seth not just for his achievements at the weekend, but for the positive attitude he shows. Congratulations, Seth!