Asian School Chess Championships: Sri Lankan school chess players shine

Sri Lankan students showcased their exceptional skills at the 18th Asian School Chess Championships held from 1-11 December in Bangkok, Thailand. 

The event, co-organised by the Thailand Chess Association under the sponsorships of the Asian Chess Federation (ACF) and the International Chess Federation (FIDE), saw the participation of 32 nations across Asia.

An overall of 67 young Sri Lankan chess players competed in multiple age categories. Their outstanding performances earned them two silver medals and three bronze medals, underscoring the talent and potential of Sri Lanka’s young chess community.

Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to Thailand, E.A.S. Wijayanthi Edirisinghe joined the event to support the players, and ceremonially inaugurated the tournaments. 

In addition, the Representative met with the parents of the players, offering her congratulations and support, and graced the prize-giving ceremony, where the medal winners were feted for their remarkable achievements.

Furthermore, she commended the dedication and hard work of the players and their coaches. 

The Ambassador also took the opportunity to express her gratefulness for the unwavering commitment of the President of the Chess Federation of Sri Lanka, Luxman Wijesuriya and highlighted his leadership and tireless efforts to inspire young players across the country.

The Sri Lankan team entailed of students from all corners of the country, demonstrating the widespread passion for chess in Sri Lanka.

Their success at this significant event further strengthens Sri Lanka’s position as a rising force in the realm of chess in the region.