Shillong, Sept 28: More than 150 Under-19 boys and girls from recognised schools across Meghalaya are taking part in the State-Level School Chess Competition being held at Dinam Hall, Jaiaw Langsning, Shillong, from September 28 to 29.
Organised by the Meghalaya Chess Association in collaboration with the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Meghalaya, the two-day competition is aimed at providing young chess players with competitive exposure and identifying the state’s representatives for the national-level championship.
The competition is being conducted under the Swiss system, with each player getting 15 minutes plus a 10-second increment. The top five boys and five girls will be selected to represent Meghalaya at the national-level U-19 championship under the All India Chess Federation.
Speaking at the programme, Meghalaya Chess Association president K.M. Warjri said the growing participation of young players was encouraging. He stressed the need for more tournaments and coaching opportunities to help youngsters improve their skills and gain competitive experience.
MLA Adelbert Nongrum, who attended the event as the chief guest, appreciated the Meghalaya Chess Association for bringing together students from schools across the state and providing them with a platform to showcase their talent.
Nongrum also appreciated the teachers, principals and school authorities for encouraging students to participate in sports. He said education should not be limited to academics, pointing out that sports can also provide opportunities for young people to build a career.
The competition will also feature prizes, trophies, medals and certificates for top performers. The selected players will get the opportunity to represent Meghalaya at the national-level tournament in Delhi.
The event is being held as part of efforts to promote chess among school students and provide young players in Meghalaya with greater opportunities to compete at higher levels.
