Report and pics by Viju Mangalore- Daijiworld News Network

Mangalore, Aug 12: The taluk-level chess tournament for High school and Primary School students organized by the DK district Department of Education was held at St Gerosa High School on Friday, Aug 11.

The event which brought together over 100 students from various schools of the taluk was inaugurated by senior Postal Superintendent of Mangalore Vishalachi.

Speaking on the occasion, she said that the human brain has tremendous potential, but is grossly underutilized. Chess keeps the brain active; she said adding that mental powers can be enhanced by keeping the brain cells active by playing chess.

The chief guest advocate Ivan D’Souza recollected his college days said that encouragement at a tender age goes a long way in nurturing talent among children. Games are an integral part of education and thus the government needs to allot adequate funds for providing sports infrastructure, he emphasized.

Sandhya Rao of CAD Media, Sr Wilma, Sr Marcel Braggs, Sr Anandi of St Gerosa School and physical trainers Balakrishna and Subraya were present on the stage.

In the Under 17 category 42 boys and 48 girls participated in the tourney, while in the Under 14 category 15 boys and 15 girls took part.

The participants included two national players and one international chess player.