Moscow Kids’ Chess Match Builds Skills and Friendships
- khwang562
- May 17
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 6
Moscow, Russia – In the period between two important United Nations Days – the International Day of Families (May 15) and the Global Day of Parents (June 1) – a special event took place in support of the values both days promote: love, unity, and intergenerational connection. On May 17, 2025, the warm and welcoming space of the PandaClub family center in Moscow became the venue for the seventh annual “White Rook” (Belaya Ladya) children’s chess tournament for ages 4 to 10.
The tournament, as in previous years, was organized by Mr. Dmitry Samko, head of UPF-Moscow, and served not only as a celebration of intellect and strategy but also as a tribute to the spirit of peace and family togetherness.
The club’s director, Ms. Zoya Kim, warmly welcomed all participants and guests, noting how heartwarming it is to see chess bringing entire families together. Her own daughter, despite celebrating her birthday that very day, happily joined the younger group and competed with enthusiasm.
The tournament gathered young chess players from various districts of Moscow and the surrounding region, along with a large group of supporters – parents, grandparents, younger siblings – all filling the room with a cozy, almost home-like atmosphere. More than just results, the focus was on support, attention, and warm smiles.
The competition was held in three age categories: older group, younger group, and middle group (ages 7–8). In the middle group, something truly unique happened: three players earned the same number of points, and even the tie-breakers couldn’t determine a single winner. As a result, this category crowned three champions – a surprise that delighted both the children and the audience.
This was the first time such an outcome occurred in the history of the “White Rook” series, which began in January 2022. It became a living testament to the idea that chess is not only about competition but also about honesty, respect, and mutual recognition of each other’s efforts.
As always, all participants received commemorative medals and certificates, and the winners were awarded trophies. But the true achievement of the tournament was not in the numbers – it was in the spirit of friendship, the love of the game, and the spark in the children’s eyes as they sat down at the boards.
The “White Rook” tournament is more than just a chess competition. It’s a celebration of intellect, perseverance, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere built together by children, parents, and organizers.
By Dmitry Samko, UPF-Russia May 17, 2025
