Turffontein Primary School hosted The Kajol Naidoo/ Turffontein Primary Human Rights Day Chess Tournament at the school hall on March 19.
The tournament featured various schools from the Southern Suburb. It was graced by the presence of the South Africa’s girls U12 champion Kajol Naidoo to inspire other players to reach newer heights of chess playing. She is from Lakeside Estate Primary.
There were medals for the players according to their rankings and trophies for winners.Rasumi Durais, a coordinator for the schools said although this tournament started with 15 players, it has grown to 150 players.
“We started at the schools like Rewlatch Primary and Suidheuwels Primary. Today we have seven schools participating, including Diversity High School. We develop chess participation in schools. They play five rounds to determine the winner,” he said.
Teacher and chess coach Jessie Fillies said she wanted to thank her mentor and teacher Eunice Makhanya. “We encourage learners to participate in chess. It is not all about winning. You don’t lose but you learn at the end of the day, and the king and the pawn go to the same box.
“Chess is important as it increases learners focus and concentration. Remember before you play you have to think about the opponent’s move,” she said.
