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.

Opening move.

Concentration.

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.