You can definitely count on the fact that holidays usually mean family activities take top priority, which is why we see a lower number this May Day Bank Holiday weekend. Today, there are just 13 juniors participating, reflecting how many are likely spending time with their families instead. A very warm welcome to Thomas, who has joined our club for the very first time. He is a young beginner full of enthusiasm and determination, showing Read more
A total of 23 juniors walked through the doors of the library today, bringing a lively and energetic atmosphere. It was especially wonderful to see familiar faces like Gagan, Tishi, and Felicity return after taking a short break. In the main room, where both intermediate and beginner players were gathered, I took the opportunity to demonstrate several examples on the display board illustrating the tactic known as ‘discovered attacks and checks.’ This allowed everyone to Read more
Today, a total of 21 enthusiastic juniors gathered to make up the lively chess ‘party,’ creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere for everyone involved. For the very first time, a second ‘secret’ room was introduced and utilized specifically for the more advanced players. This special session was expertly led by Jon Catchpole and abely assisted by new tutors Russell Peg and Samuel Gorsuch, who brought fresh energy and support to the group consisting of Wyatt, Read more
Opposition Let’s have a detailed look at the concept of ‘opposition’ in chess, especially focusing on how crucial it is during the endgame phase. Opposition occurs when one king positions itself directly in front of the other king on the same rank, file, or diagonal. This strategic placement forces the opposing king to make a move either to the side or step backward, as moving forward would result in an illegal position. It doesn’t necessarily Read more
With the final weekend of the Easter break upon us, a total of 23 enthusiastic juniors joined us today, which I find truly amazing and impressive. A very warm welcome to beginner Henry and his wonderful mum Camilla, who might assist in teaching some of the beginners whenever she is available. Also a warm welcome to Samuel, a Southbourne player who is not only very strong but also highly skilled and experienced, someone who could Read more
There are 15 weeks remaining from 11th April until 18th July (the beginning of the summer holidays break). Starting immediately with an average of one game per week, each individual has the opportunity to play a MAXIMUM total of 15 Ladder games over the entire period. This limit applies regardless of whether a person attends every session or not, maintaining fairness and equal chances for all players throughout the duration. Players are awarded 3 points Read more
Fifteen juniors graciously graced us with their presence, and they were very warmly welcomed by everyone during this special Easter holiday. Their participation truly added a wonderful and lively atmosphere to the occasion. With many thanks to Jon Catchpole and John Heath for generously helping to entertain and engage the more advanced players, I spent some time running through a variety of tactics and clever tricks on the large display board. My hope is that Read more
On this final Saturday before Easter, I was truly delighted and pleased to see a total of 22 enthusiastic juniors come along to enjoy a fun and engaging session of Chess. A very warm welcome to Miles, who made the journey all the way from Wareham to be here with us today. He is genuinely an outstanding and exceptional player, especially considering his young age and impressive skills. Also Zeke, who really got involved with Read more
A wonderful turnout of 17 enthusiastic students gathered together on this beautifully sunny and bright day. With the invaluable assistance of Jon Catchpole and John Heath, we successfully managed to cover a wide range of important aspects within the various skills involved in playing chess. Jon and Jonah played Kieran and myself in a Hand and Brain game, which had to be agreed a draw after running short of time, good fun though! Mountain Final Read more
A new world record was set for Ferndown Junior Chess as an impressive total of 22 enthusiastic members tuned in to participate in a thrilling and intense chess monster session. The event was ably supported and guided by the dedicated Jon, who provided expert assistance throughout, and was briefly joined by a new volunteer, John Heath, who contributed to making the session even more engaging and successful. We warmly welcomed several new faces this time Read more