More than 100 children from schools across Merthyr Tydfil are set to compete in The Great Merthyr Schools Chess Tournament when it returns to Dowlais Community Centre on Friday 3 July.
Running from 9.30am until 3pm, the event has become a well established fixture in the local schools calendar, featuring both a school team competition and an individual championship. Players will have the chance to compete for honours for both themselves and their schools.
This year’s tournament will also welcome Stephens and George Chess Ambassador Michael Adams, one of the UK’s greatest ever chess players. A former World Championship finalist and long time British number one, Adams has represented England at the highest level for decades.
During the day, he will take part in a simultaneous exhibition, playing multiple young competitors at the same time and giving local children the opportunity to test their skills against a world class grandmaster.
Chess continues to play an increasingly important role in education across Merthyr Tydfil through the Stephens and George Charitable Trust’s growing chess programme, which aims to raise aspirations and improve life chances for young people. The programme has also received national recognition through its inclusion in the Hay Festival education programme.
Using chess as a learning tool, the initiative helps children develop skills including focus, patience, problem solving and resilience, while encouraging confidence and ambition both inside and outside the classroom.
Helen Hughes, Charity Coordinator at Stephens and George Charitable Trust, said:
“Chess is a powerful tool for raising life chances. It teaches children how to think ahead, stay calm under pressure, and believe in their ability to succeed. We’ve seen first-hand how it builds confidence, improves concentration, and inspires young people to aim higher. To see so many children taking part — and to have opportunities like playing against a grandmaster — is something truly special for Merthyr.”
Every participant will receive a certificate, while medals will be awarded across a range of categories. A trophy will also be presented to the winning school team.
The tournament has attracted support from local businesses, with Merthyr car dealership Thomas and Davies Citroën among the sponsors backing this year’s event. Headline sponsorship is currently being finalised.
Organisers are encouraging the wider Merthyr community to come along and support the next generation of chess players as they compete throughout the day.
