Sussex Closed U8 Championship, Lindfield Primary School, 7th November 2009

Our first age-group tournament attracted a record entry of over 30 children - some already seasoned campaigners but most competing for the first time. Standard of play was exceptionally high for this age group, with several long matches, and the arbiters were pleased to report a lower than expected incidence of scholars mate!

The school team event was very closely contested with only 2.5 points separating first and third places. Great Walstead emerged victorious - adding the U8 trophy to the U7 one they won back in June. This was particularly fitting as the trophy was new this year, kindly donated by Colin Harding of Great Walstead. Colin has been a supporter of junior chess in Sussex for many years.

Many thanks to Lindfield Primary for providing the spacious venue - very much appreciated as we had a training day, and a county under-14 match running alongside the tournament.

Finally, thanks to the tournament team - Sue Howell, Jacqui Fitzgerald, Gary McCulloch, and Brian Stockham. Once again we are indebted to Mandy North - our one-woman catering supremo!

Click HERE for a photo gallery.