Global Chess Stars Spark Inspiration for Local Learners

Global Chess Stars Spark Inspiration for Local Learners

Grootbos Foundation

Global Chess Stars Spark Inspiration for Local Learners

Our most surprising update comes from a board game that has reinvented itself as a global sport - freestyle chess!

Today, eight of the world’s top chess grandmasters spent the afternoon playing simultaneous chess against 110 specially invited local youth from primary and high schools in the region.

This unique opportunity was made possible ahead of Grootbos hosting the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam next week, which will be livestreamed. But before stepping into competition mode, these chess giants shared their passion with young learners.

What a moment - and what an inspiring way to encourage young South Africans to be creative, courageous, committed, calculating and curious through sport.

We were also honoured to host Western Cape Premier Alan Winde, who was just as excited as the children to see the grandmasters in action.

We can’t wait to see where this spark of inspiration may lead the youth of our region, our country, and our continent.

Image 1

Opening move.

Image 1

Concentration.

Image 1
Image 2

Our parting shots this week come from the children who proudly challenged the grandmasters today.

Official grandmaster portraits will follow - but we simply couldn’t resist sharing these moments now.

From all of us at Grootbos Foundation, we wish you a fun weekend.

Image 1
Global Chess Stars Spark Inspiration for Local Learners

Grootbos Foundation

Grootbos Foundation is a registered non-profit organisation in Gansbaai dedicated to conserving the Cape Floral Kingdom while uplifting the communities that call it home. The foundation protects over 22,200 hectares of fynbos and biodiversity across Grootbos Private Nature Reserve and the Walker Bay...

View Profile

What is Xplorio?

Xplorio is your local connection allowing you to find anything and everything about a town.

Watch the Gansbaai Video
Read More

Other Articles

Stop Searching Outside Yourself for What’s Inside You

Stop Searching Outside Yourself for What’s Inside You

Many people arrive at coaching because they are exhausted.

WHEN OTHER PEOPLE'S PAIN FEELS LIKE YOUR RESPONSIBILITY

WHEN OTHER PEOPLE'S PAIN FEELS LIKE YOUR RESPONSIBILITY

As we continue this week's journey into self-love and self-kindness...

Fynbos After Fire: Wildflowers and Invasive Control

Fynbos After Fire: Wildflowers and Invasive Control

You will be delighted to know that this gorgeous yellow bloom is called Moraea pyrophila...

Grootbos Foundation
Under the Microscope: Eyes in Focus

Under the Microscope: Eyes in Focus

What's under the microscope this week? 

Grootbos Foundation
Curro Winter Open 2026

Curro Winter Open 2026

Vyf van ons Gansie-skaakleerders het die afgelope naweek aan die Curro Winter Open 2026 deelgeneem.

Laerskool Gansbaai
WE SHOULD HAVE STAYED LONGER

WE SHOULD HAVE STAYED LONGER

Just two hours from Cape Town lies a coastline of rugged beauty, ancient landscapes, marine wildlife and small-town hospitality.

Saxon Lodge
See All Articles