Last week, St. Joseph’s Catholic School travelled to Cardiff to compete in the Secondary Schools Chess Tournament, facing an extremely high standard of opposition throughout the day.

Representing the school from Castell Nedd chess club were William O’Connor Gunston and Finley Davies, both of whom battled through three rounds of challenging games. William finished the day strongly, securing a comfortable win in his final match. Finley, newer to competitive chess but improving with every month, also showed excellent progress. In particular, his second game stood out, where he held a clear advantage until a small slip allowed his opponent back into the game.

The club (and league) tips its hat to both players for their courage and commitment, especially given that several secondary schools in the area, with even stronger players, chose not to take part. It is also worth noting that William played a key role in organising his friends to attend the event — a sign that he may well have a future as a chess manager or organiser!

Well done to both competitors.