How chess can break barriers for children with disabilities, one game at a time

GETTING MORE INTO THE GAME

Organisers hope such competitions will attract more children with disabilities to the game and build their confidence for life.

“The dream is really to have a strong sustainable framework that we could continuously bring chess to – perhaps schools with special needs, organisations that serve kids with disabilities – and to have sound financial frameworks such that we can run this regularly and consistently,” said Mr Goh.

Mr Goh noted that at the World Chess Olympiad held every two years, blind and physically impaired chess players are paired with national teams.

“We might associate (chess) with something that we can see … and we can make moves and calculate in our minds,” he said.

“How about players who don’t get to see the chess boards? How do they calculate? How do they train their ability to look several moves into the game? So, that’s very inspiring.”

Among those who have benefitted from picking up chess is 10-year-old Audelle Sim, who is hearing impaired in both ears.

She was among 10 players – five with disabilities and five able-bodied – who played against Mr Luther during the para-chess showcase.

“Chess has helped me focus (and) think better,” she said.