White Rook Chess Tournament in Sochi

Gonzaga have arrived in Sochi, Russia, for the Belaya Ladya (White Rook Tournament) - the U14 World Chess Schools' Championship. This tournament has been the premier all-Russian schools' tournament since 1969. Four years ago, it became an international tournament, with the national school champions of other countries receiving an invitation from the Russian Chess Federation and the Russian Ministry of Sport.

Gonzaga have always had to decline their invitation as one of the rules stipulates that at least one girl must play on your team of four players. However, this year, Gonzaga were permitted to take a girl from an Irish school and have her play on the team. We are very lucky to have Lara Putar, of Scoil Mhuire Primary School, Co. Leixlip, as the first girl to represent the college in an official capacity. She is joined by 1st Years: Daniel Dwyer, Jack McIntyre and James Crowley.

Best of luck to all four players during this tough nine-day tournament, and thanks to Mr Daniel Lynch for accompanying them to Sochi. A running commentary on the tournament can be found here.