Irshadgul News report,
Some of the best chess players in the Canadian military are in Kingston, Ont. this weekend.
The Royal Military College is hosting the 13th annual Canadian Military Chess Championship. Fifty players are competing.
Chess is considered to be the oldest military war game that is still played today.
Players say it’s not just fun, it also helps them with work.
I think it’s really a great thing to work on your mental toughness,” said Officer Cadet William Ton Thanh, “your analysis, your strategic skills. Don’t make any mistake.”
The tournament is open to active or retired members of the Canadian Armed Forces, and active or retired Department of National Defense civilians. Officer Cadet Tristan Buller said, “It’s a really good way to hone your critical thinking skills.” “Being able to think deeply about something, sit down and focus and try to solve problems; you know, think ahead. It’s definitely something that applies to everybody. “
The Canadian Military Chess Championship is a qualifying event for a chance to represent Canada at the NATO Chess Championships in Slovenia this September.
The Royal Military College Chess Club volunteered to host this year’s event to allow full participation from club members. This is the third time that the college has hosted the national tournament. The club has been active since 2012 and naval/officer cadets participate in annual matches with the United States Military Academy at West Point, the Canadian Military Chess Championship and the NATO Chess Championship.