Chess players urged to ‘spread the love of the game’ |21 July 2022

Young local chess players in action. Interest in chess in Seychelles has sparked but it is yet to reach its full potential

World Chess Day is celebrated annually on July 29 for chess lovers to celebrate their favourite game.

The origin of the game of chess is debatable and multiple theories attribute the beginning of this game to countries like India, China, Russia and central Asia.

Chess was once known as ‘Chaturanga’ and is believed to be dated back to almost 1500 years and potentially in India. It later spread to Persia, where it flourished under Arab rule and eventually the game made its way to Southern Europe. In Europe, chess evolved into its current form (adopting the black and white squares we know so well) during the 15th century. It changed into a modern sport by the end of the 15th century.

July 20 was proclaimed as the International Chess Day to mark the date of the establishment of the International Chess Federation (FIDE).

Chess’s popularity can be attributed to the fact that it was associated with wealth, knowledge, and power. ‘Chess is a universal game that encourages fairness, inclusiveness, and respect for others. It is noteworthy in this regard because it can support a climate of tolerance and international understanding. Chess is one of the most ancient, intellectual and cultural games, with a combination of sport, scientific thinking and elements of art.’

The chairman of the Seychelles Chess Federation, Benjamin Hoareau, stated that currently the federation is planning for the Chess Olympiad and focusing their efforts in preparation for the event starting on July 28. In total the Olympiad will require about 12 chess players.

Mr Hoareau noted soon he will be going to Beau Vallon district to teach various pupils interested in the game.

He said that “chess has many benefits for all age groups such as educational, mental and holistic…especially academic. The day is an honour for a chess player,” he said.

The chair has launched an appeal to chess players across the country to show their siblings, friends or others how to play the sport. “Spread the love of the game as it has many benefits,” he noted.

To note during the pandemic chess was the only sport that was being played in Seychelles. “We took the opportunity to promote the game as we were the only sport that was active using the internet,” Mr Hoareau said.

He added that interest in chess in Seychelles has sparked but it has not reached its full potential.

Marla Simeon