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The tremendous growth of the game within the Salama community made this year another great success in terms of chess performance. The chess club at Salama Gachie Community School has seen participation almost doubled; at the alumni schools, Salama graduates are now leading or creating their own clubs. Last year, 7 Salama players qualified for the National Schools and debuted on the national stage; this year, the number nearly tripled!

Below is a summary of the brilliant performance of Salama players at the regional and the national tournaments.

There was indeed a lot to celebrate since last year after the CTC team came to Salama for the first time. The school brought home their first team trophy at the 2023 Potterhouse Chess Championship, 20 Salama players made it to the Kenya National Youth Chess Championship, and most impressively, Gloria Wakoli Mbolo became the very first Salama player to qualify for the African Youth Chess Championships. In addition, the first puzzle contest was a lively success and rewarded the best efforts Salama players had put over the board. Ellen also took this opportunity to thank the volunteer coach Hillary, who constantly came to the school to coach the club members and helped out at various events.

But first and foremost, an immense thank you to Catherine, the head teacher and the mother of all Salama kids! Her unwavering commitment and pivotal contribution is nothing short of life-changing for all Salama players, driving their continued chess progress and success.

In Boston, WIM Kelsey Liu has been in close collaboration with Boylston Chess Club to secure the venue for the much-awaited girls’ event, first time in the area. In addition to a large array of energizing activities including puzzles, blitz and bughouse games, Russian GM Nadya Kosintseva generously offers to give an inspiring lecture. In Indianapolis, Madison Bown partners with St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Meridian to carry out another edition of the festival, equally exciting and empowering.

With flyers distributed, T-shirts printed, and volunteers recruited, these two in-person events are all ready to welcome their participants! They will bring together girl players of all ages and levels as well as parents and coaches in the community. A huge thank you to WIM Kelsey Liu and Madison Brown for their devoted and meticulous preparation! Please spread the word and encourage your chess friends in the area to join a fun day of chess learning and play.