In a first-of-its-kind event, Park Meadows Shopping Centre brought together 100 learners from 12 schools to a full day of competitive chess.

The learners were accompanied by their chess coaches, teachers and parents to the Youth Chess Tournament on August 8.

This was a day of strategy, competition and community. The tournament was divided into junior and senior divisions, giving learners across different high school grades an opportunity to put their skills to the test while representing their schools.

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Marketing coordinator at Park Meadows Shopping Centre, Makupa Madia noted that chess continues to grow in popularity among South African school learners, providing an inclusive activity in which boys and girls can develop skills such as concentration, discipline, problem-solving and strategic thinking.

The Youth Chess Tournament was introduced as part of Park Meadows Shopping Centre’s commitment to creating meaningful community experiences and providing platforms that support and celebrate young people.

Madia said the response to the Centre’s first chess tournament demonstrated the value of creating experiences that bring schools, families and the wider community together.

“Chess provides young people with an opportunity to develop confidence, discipline, strategic thinking and a healthy competitive spirit, and we are delighted to have created a platform where they could showcase those skills. This tournament represents what we want Park Meadows to be – more than a place to shop, but a place where our community can connect, participate and grow together,” said Madia.

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After an exciting day of competition, Crawford International Sandton emerged as the junior division champions, while Queens High School claimed the title of senior division champions. Both winning schools were presented with championship trophies and R5 000 prize vouchers in total in recognition of their outstanding performances.

Gold, silver and bronze medals were also awarded during the tournament in recognition of player performances.

For Park Meadows, the tournament was also an opportunity to strengthen relationships with schools in its surrounding communities and welcome families to experience the centre in a different way.

The centre partnered with Jobert Wany, president of the Ekurhuleni Chess Association and founder of Chess Molecules Chess Club, to bring the tournament to life and provide the chess expertise required to manage the competition.

The event also received valuable support from Park Meadows tenants Food Lover’s Market, Verde Cafe and Kreme Beauty, who contributed prizes, fruit and beverages towards the tournament.