Three learners from Fish Hoek Primary School proved their talent and determination at the Western Cape Schools Chess Primary School Individual Provincial Championships held at Gansbaai Primary School on Sunday 17 May.
Among the standout performers was young chess star Luca Blom, who claimed first place after six intense rounds against some of the province’s strongest junior players.
Chess triumph
Fellow Fish Hoek Primary learners Kai Chapela and Ava Van Dyk also represented the school proudly at the prestigious event.
The championships brought together top young chess players from regions across the Western Cape, including Eden and Overberg, with competitors battling it out across multiple divisions for provincial honours.
Top-performing players from the tournament qualify for Western Cape colours and earn the opportunity to represent the province at national-level tournaments later this year.
For Blom, the victory came after months of disciplined preparation and hard work.
“I prepared by doing chess homework daily, which includes chess puzzles and weekly exercises set by my coach, Michael Cuthbert,” he explained.
Blom also attends weekly coaching sessions where he analyses games and learns new concepts, while regularly practising with teammates and coaches at Fish Hoek Primary.
“The coaches and players there are very supportive,” he said.
Provincial challenge
Despite ultimately winning gold, Luca admitted the tournament was mentally demanding.
“Each opponent at that level is tough, so there is no break with an ‘easy game’. Every game I played was about two hours or longer and we played four rounds on Saturday and two rounds on Sunday,” he said.
One of his toughest moments came during a late-night Saturday match.
“I was quite tired by then, but luckily I managed to win.”
Competing against players from across the province was both exciting and stressful, he added.
“It is fun playing against players from areas like Eden and Overberg, who I don’t often face, but it was stressful competing against the best in the province.” Blom said he exceeded his own expectations at the tournament.
“I didn’t expect to win gold. My goal was only to finish somewhere in the top 10. I learnt that if you work hard and don’t give up, sometimes you can beat your own expectations.”
His long-term goals now include competing at the South African Junior Chess Championships in 2027 and potentially qualifying for international tournaments.
Blom’s parents said the achievement has been a proud moment for the whole family.
“Seeing him reach such a significant milestone is inspiring for his siblings too. It shows that dedication and hard work really do pay off,” they said.
They believe chess has played an important role in Blom’s development, teaching him resilience, strategic thinking and humility.
“Chess is one of the most valuable activities a young person can pursue because it encourages problem-solving and long-term thinking. It also builds confidence and shows learners that with hard work, they can compete with anyone.”
ALSO READ: Blisters for Bread Walk helps feed vulnerable learners
You must be logged in to post a comment.