For some people playing chess would be a difficult way to pass the time, but for 10-year-old Raidan Michiel from Wellington playing chess is everything.
Raidan, a Grade 4 learner at Van Wyksvlei Primary, started playing chess on the computer at the tender age of 3 years, and joined the chess club at his school four years later.
Recently, he got the opportunity to play at the World Cadets Chess Championship in China, and competed against the world’s best and won two games, and ended up with two draws out of 11 games.
“At first Raidan did not qualify for the World Cadets Chess Championship in China,” explained his father, Riaan. He received a full score at the South African Junior Chess Championships (SAJCC), 7 out of 7, and 6½ out of 9 at the SA Closed Chess Championship in March, which put him in fourth place in the country. After the top two qualifying players declined the invitation he was called up.
Dad Riaan sees this as a blessing in disguise for Raidan always wanted to go to China.
The young prodigy said what he enjoyed most about the trip to China was being able to do what he loves – playing chess, but this time on an international stage. He said he has learnt a lot and is grateful to everyone who made his trip possible. He also urges anyone who wants to play chess to join a club and learn the game.
He is currently part of the Drakenstein Dragons Chess Club and is preparing to compete in the African Youth Chess Tournament in Namibia, which takes place in December.
Besides playing chess, Raidan, like any other 10-year-old, enjoys playing outside with his friends.
His father describes him as a humble child who always gives God the glory for his achievements.
Raidan and his family will raise funds for his trip to Namibia later this year. Donations can be made to the Chess SA account, or Riaan Michiel can be contacted on 072 934 2935.
