Tuam pupil is national Chess Champ
TUAM has its newest national champion as Arya Ramasamy secured the U-8 title at the Irish Junior Chess Championships.
The First Class pupil at Educate Together National School in Tuam produced a flawless performance at the championships, which were held in Ballincollig in Cork, winning all six games to be crowned the Irish champion.
The remarkable achievement has been widely celebrated across the school community and follows their recent success in team competition. Their senior squad were the joint winners of county Ficheall finals for the first time — a historic milestone for the school.
“It’s wonderful to see our pupils excelling and enjoying chess. These successes reflect the inclusive and ambitious spirit of our school,” stated Tuam Educate Together NS (ETNS) Principal Nuala Bourke.
“With both individual and team triumphs to celebrate, chess at Tuam ETNS is thriving, inspiring pupils of all ages to take part and aim high.”
The team event was organised by Ficheall, a group made up of teachers who see the benefits of introducing chess in their schools.
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KAAN Aksungurlu of Tuam Educate Together NS during the Ficheall County Finals Chess Tournament.Image 2 of 2
THE victorious Senior chess team from Tuam Educate Together NS, who were the joint winners at the Ficheall County Final Chess Tournament: Colin Flaherty, Kaan Aksungurlu, Antoni Slawek, Jose Santo De Oliveira,Ronin Carroll, Jared Abberton, Hannah De Siqueira and Ediz Celiktas.The sport was brought to Tuam ETNS in 2024 by Sixth Class teacher Dave Meehan. It has become a hugely popular pastime over the past two years, with pupils eagerly awaiting every tournament.
Pupils have been engaging in the lunchtime chess clubs and competitions to fine tune their skills in a sport which promotes and develops students’ concentration, resilience, and strategic thinking.
“I am incredibly proud of all our players. Their commitment, sportsmanship, and enthusiasm have been outstanding, and it’s fantastic to see their hard work rewarded with such success,” commented Mr Meehan.