Anglo Singapore Int'l School ( Bangkok,Thailand) students staying sharp amidst challenging times!
"Learn to Think, Think to Learn" the school motto says it all. Chess-playing students from the esteemed Anglo Singapore International School in Thailand never ceased to find ways of honing their skills for the game they truly love.
As over the board play comes to a halt in light of the present pandemic, 19 members of the school’s chess club slugged it out in the recently concluded 2nd Shanghai Chess Academy under 15 International online event. The kids held their grounds in the tough 9 round, 112 player event with participants from Europe and Asian countries.
The passion of these young students for the game became more evident as they were confined in their homes as the aftermath of the government imposed a countrywide lock down. Some parents were skeptical at first as playing chess events online resulted to longer computer time for their little ones, yet in the end, most will say “We would rather have our kids learn and play chess on their tablets or personal computers than seeing them glued on other not so pleasant activities or other highly addicting games on the internet. Besides we always believe in chess as a tool to improve their academic prowess”.
As for me, the chess-playing world is still very lucky as the game can still be played through the wonders of the internet. While most sports have to wait for things to go back to normal, online chess tournaments suddenly hit a fever pitch as almost every chess playing soul is into it. In fact it becomes the “new normal”.
Of course all of these kids are eager to see their friends and nemesis alike on a real physical over the board tussle, yet amidst the looming uncertainties, all they can say is…we’ll find ways!
Keep well everyone, stay safe and sound!
