Horsham Grand Prix: 27th January 2008, Farlington School

In the U11 Minor, there was a strong turnout of over 34 players, a third of whom were girls. First place went to Lauren Merry on a complete 6 out of 6. 2nd place was taken by U8 player Joseph Tomy 5/6 with Billy Twigge-Molecey, also an U8, in third place on progressives on 5/6. 4th was Kieran Mulligan 4.5/6 who took the U10 Cup.

U11 Minor

The U7 Cup Winner was Edward Critchley on a fantastic 4/6.

U8 Cup winner Joshua Higgs 3/6 just narrowly beating on tiebreak Michael Stockham, Toby Barden and Joshua Rowe.

The U9 Cup winner was Daniela Parada-Sanchez 3.5/6.

The Arbiters Prize was awarded to David McKenna for his excellent supporting behaviour and really trying hard in each round. There were also encouraging performances from Rosie Hennessy 3/6 as an U9 Rosie Burke and Imogen Ferguson 3/6 as U7's. Also in his first competition for some time Majid Mohamed (an U11) scored 4/6 so well done and good to see Majid again and also to all those that played in their first competition.

Age Group Prizes

The U11 Major was closely contested with Charlie Keen reasserting himself as a top U11 player. Arthur Graham played very solid chess in each round and continues to show considerable improvement from event to event. He shared 3rd place with Cosima Keen, behind 2nd place Sol Knipe who lost only one game (to Charlie) and as always plays nice controlled chess. Cosima (age 8) again shows the older boys that they are not going to have it all their own way, she graciously allowed Arthur to receive the 3rd place trophy.

U11 Major

In the U18 Minor, Iona Rose looked to be in control in this event and played well all day, eventually taking 1st place. Good to see Omar Mohamed return to chess after a while away and in good form too, taking 2nd place. Emma and Lucinda Ritchie had identical scores, and drew their individual game, rather pleasing for the sisters we expect.

U18 Minor

There was a good strong entry in the U18 Major event as well. Oskar Schortz didn't lose a game and showed why he is also in the England Junior team, finishing in 1st place on 5 out of 6. It was very close between the next players with Amy Hoare (from Farlington School) winning both her final rounds to take 2nd place on 4.5. Third place was shared by Daniel Sutton and Charles Davies on 4. High quality games and excellent sportsmanship by all made this a memorable day.

U18 Major

Thanks to Farlington School for hosting the event, a truly excellent venue , much enjoyed by players and parents.