STUDENTS CHESS TOURNAMENT 2024: WHERE STRATEGY MEETS SKILL IN A BATTLE OF MINDS

On July 20th, I embarked on an exciting journey to the Atlantis chess tournament. As a student of Dehradun Hills Academy, I was thrilled to represent our school and test my skills against players from various backgrounds.

On July 20th, I embarked on an exciting journey to the Atlantis chess tournament. As a
student of Dehradun Hills Academy, I was thrilled to represent our school and test my
skills against players from various backgrounds.
The day began early at 6:00 AM when I woke up my seniors - Prateekbhaiya, Piyush
bhaiya, and Karthik. We started with a practice match where I managed to beat
Prateekbhaiya, boosting my confidence for the day ahead.
Arriving at the Atlantis Chess Academy, I was awestruck by the 18 trophies on display
and the promise of cash prizes. The tournament had seven rounds, and I was ready to
give my best in the Under 13 category.
My first match was a surprise - I faced a 19-year-old district-level player! Though I lost, I
didn't let it demotivate me. The second match was against another tough opponent, and
despite my efforts, I couldn't secure a win.
My luck turned in the third match when I played against my senior, Piyush bhaiya. To my
delight, I won! This victory gave me my first point and a much-needed confidence boost.
It felt great to have a point when even some seniors didn't.
Between matches, we enjoyed breaks with samosas and cold drinks. The tournament
organizers also provided a delicious lunch. These breaks were perfect for regrouping
and strategizing.
As the tournament progressed, I faced increasingly challenging opponents, including a
national-level player. In one memorable match, I found myself with just a king against
my opponent's king and three queens! Though I lost, it was an invaluable learning
experience.
By the end of the tournament, I had secured one point, as did Karthik, Piyush bhaiya,
and Prateekbhaiya. The final matches were intense - Prateekbhaiya even played
against a 7-year-old boy from Tokyo, Japan!
When the results were announced, I was thrilled to learn that I had secured 9th position
in the Under 13 category. While I didn't win a trophy or medal, I received a certificate
that I'll always cherish.
This tournament taught me two important lessons. First, nobody is perfect at anything in
this world. Even the best players make mistakes, and that's okay. Second, failure is just
a stepping stone to success. Each loss was an opportunity to learn and improve.

Returning to hostel, I felt proud of what I had achieved. Sure, I didn't win the
tournament, but I had faced opponents far more experienced than me and held my own.
I had improved my chess skills, made new friends, and gained confidence in my
abilities.
To my fellow students at Dehradun Hills Academy, I want to say: don't be afraid to
challenge yourself. Whether it's chess, sports, or academics, pushing your limits is how
you grow. Remember, winning isn't everything - it's the learning and the experience that
truly count.
As I look back on this chess adventure, I'm grateful for the support of my school and the
opportunity to participate. I can't wait for the next tournament, where I'll use everything
I've learned to play even better. Who knows? Maybe next time, one of those shiny
trophies will be coming back to Dehradun Hills Academy!

ReyanshChoudhary
Class VII