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Dear Fellow Vermonter,
On Saturday, 160 young Vermonters and their parents joined me and my staff at the Vermont State University in Randolph for our third annual Youth Chess Day.
The reason we hold a Youth Chess Day is to encourage young people to learn how to play an intellectually challenging game that is many hundreds of years old and is enjoyed throughout the world. Teachers and parents tell me that as a result of cell phones, TV, the internet and other modern developments, too many kids lack the ability to concentrate on the tasks they face. That’s where chess, a game of strategy, focus, and problem solving can be of help. And it’s a lot of fun.
What I enjoy most about our Youth Chess Day is seeing students of all ages and abilities learn and improve their skills throughout the day. Many of the younger kids had never played before. Other participants first learned the game at our inaugural event two years ago – and have continued to come back to test their knowledge and participate in the tournament. It’s quite remarkable to see them progress year to year.
In the morning, students new to the game had the opportunity to learn and hone their skills from mentors from the UVM Chess Club, Middlebury College Chess Club, as well as chess experts Michelle Sagalchik, David Carter, and Eric Hutchins. I thank them all very much for sharing their knowledge with Vermont kids.
After lunch, the tournament began. The winners in the three age categories were: Asa McCallum, Abe Tobin, Kieran McCoullough (1st-3rd grade winners). Harsha Chadive, Turner Tillinghast, Nora LeBlanc (4th-5th grade winners). Blake Bentley, Mohid Ali, Vivek Chadive (6th-12th grade winners).
Here is what some of the kids had to say:
“It's just a fun game that I like to play and it helps me focus better. Because usually I have a hard time focusing on things, but chess is one thing but I can focus on.” - Rose from Johnson, VT
“It’s definitely bigger than some tournaments I’ve been at. No matter how much time is on the clock, it'll always put pressure on you.” - Charlie from Montpelier, VT
“I am very a big fan of chess. And I like beating my mom.” - Holden from Barre, VT
“It was nice. It was nice how competitive it was, but it was still fun.” - Archie from Richmond, VT
To all the young Vermonters who participated: great job and keep it up.
I’m already looking forward to next year’s event.
Sincerely,
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