Battersea first team player Koby Kalavannan just missed out on being named UK schools chess champion after being pipped to top spot yesterday.
The junior, whose ECF grade has shot up to 213, lost out to 16-year-old Harry Grieve, from Royal Grammar School, in the final round of the Delancey UK Schools Chess Challenge.
Lord Mark Price, the Minister of State for International Trade, said: “I have been astounded at the high level of chess played today – it is incredible.
GMs @DavidHowellGM and @sj_gordon commentating on Board one- Koby Kalavannan Vs Jonah Willow pic.twitter.com/oxzBWM948b
— Delancey UKCC (@Delancey_UKCC) August 13, 2017
“Harry is a worthy winner and I have full respect for him. Well done!
“Playing chess regularly can help improve critical thinking skills and cognitive function, whilst building confidence and coping strategies that will be useful in later life.
“Why wouldn’t you get your child involved in this wonderful and engaging game – today has been testament to that.
Final round kicks off with Harry Grieve a point clear- playing top seed Koby Kalavannan!
— Delancey UKCC (@Delancey_UKCC) August 13, 2017
“I’ve played chess since I was a young boy and after teaching it to my own children, I felt compelled to do something that would introduce the game to other children – in a fun and interactive way – my book The Foolish King does just that.”
Sarah Hegarty, CEO of the Delancey UK Schools’ Chess Challenge, said: “The high quality level of chess has been outstanding – it gives me such pleasure to see so many children participate in such a great game. “
“It’s also been super having Mark involved in our school’s chess challenge. His involvement has helped us get the message out there about the importance of playing chess and the life skills it teaches you.”
