Campion College auditorium was transformed into a battlefield of minds on June 21, as over 200 young players participated in the Good2Grow R&D Showdown & Invitational Chess Tournament. Held under the theme ‘Where Every Child is a Winner,’ the event welcomed a vibrant mix of newcomers and experienced youth players, celebrating the strategic depth and growing popularity of chess in Jamaica.

The event offered something for everyone both on and off the board; with a diverse range of sections, every child had a meaningful opportunity to compete, learn, and thrive.

Morris Knibb’s Ameera-Jaye Foster claimed top honours in the exciting Hunt the King event, while Rushika Reddy Kuduru of Hopefield Prep emerged victorious in the Beginner Section, setting the tone for a day filled with fierce but friendly rivalry.

In the Under 8 Invitational, Meusem Liao of Glenmuir Prep played with impressive poise to take first place. The Under 8 Showdown title went to Rae’lazne Porter of Immaculate Conception Prep, who demonstrated calm and consistency throughout the day.

The Under 10 Invitational saw Jotham Mais of Morris Knibb Preparatory rise above his peers in a section filled with sharp tactical play while in the Under 10 Showdown, Parris Duncan of Immaculate Conception Prep took home the top prize after several strong performances.

In the older categories, Arianna-Marie Daniels of Praise Tab Christian Academy secured victory in the Under 12 Invitational, while Pranav Sunkara of Hopefield Prep claimed first in the Under 12 Showdown. Meanwhile, in the High School section, Yeney Terry Gordon of Ardenne Preparatory and Extension High edged out Taishin Saito of AISK after the two finished tied for first, with Gordon securing the final edge on tie-breaks.

The FIDE U-1900 Section was one of the most competitive of the day, with national-level tactics on display. Ultimately, Vaishnav Gali of Campion College came out on top after several intense rounds.

Not to be left out, parents brought their own fire to the board. The Parent Section ended in a three-way tie between Parul Patel, Paula Deer Martin, and Marlon Thomas, offering a heart-warming reminder that chess spans generations.

Reflecting on the day’s success, organiser and Woman International Master Deborah Richards-Porter said, “This tournament was about more than trophies. It was about developing life skills such as confidence, patience, and perseverance. It’s a joy to see our young players grow through the game of chess.”

The event was supported by a range of sponsors, including Good2Grow as the title sponsor, and contributions from Blue Waters, Snack Pack, Cap’n Crunch, Juicy Juice, and Munchee Biscuits, all of whom added to the excitement and enjoyment of the day.

The R&D Showdown & Invitational was not just a chess tournament. It was a celebration of excellence, community, and the limitless potential of young minds.