The Nunez family, The Montessori Centre, and the Saint Lucia Chess Federation (SLCF) are still abuzz, after the recent performance of the Nunez brothers, Leon and Noah, at the Central America and Caribbean School Championship. The tournament ran from October 13-19 in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
The brothers competed in the Under Classical games. Nine-year-old Leon finished second in the Under-9 Absolute division. Five-year-old Noah placed third among the Under-7’s. Their performance in the Blitz time control was also commendable. Noah came second in the Under-7 category. Leon got fourth place in the Under-9 section. The Montessori Centre of Saint Lucia captured third place overall in the third installment of the regional school competition.
“Chess, under our alternative sports unit [did well amongst] 14 teams from Central America and the Caribbean,” said Minister for Youth Development and Sports Kenson Casimir at the pre-Cabinet press briefing on October 27.
“We’re talking about some of the biggest names, including Mexico, Nicaragua, and all the Caribbean participated. Saint Lucia finished third out of 14 teams. A tremendous achievement for our young individuals.
“So, with the alternative sports, we have invested a lot in the school sports programme. I’ve always said that if you want to develop sports in the nation, you have to have participation from the schools, and keep them all the way through to a professional level. So, [we are] very proud of the achievement.”
The SLCF also welcomed a visit by the Confederation of Chess for the Americas Zonal Head, Carlos Rivero from October 18-21. Rivero is also President of the Cuban Chess Federation. Rivero met with SLCF executives and members. witnessed action in the Classic Rated Tournament, won by Justin James, and paid a courtesy call to the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports.
