Local kids checkmate the competition

Ken Johnston

Three local boys cleaned up at the Normax Thunder Bay Chess tournament over the weekend.
Marty Johnston of Rainy River went undefeated to win the 16-17 age group and bring home $125 in prize money.
Johnston said his first three games were a breeze but in the fourth game he had his back up against the wall when his opponent made a mistake and allowed Johnston to comeback and win. “I chalk it up to him being inexperienced,” said Johnston. He also won his fifth game easily.
Ethan Swentik of Rainy River also had a banner weekend finishing in second place in the 14-15 age group. He lost his first game to one of the top ranked players in his division. However Swentik then made quick work of his next three opponents. He then received a bye and ended up in a tie for 2nd place and won $37.50 in prize money.
Ben Miller of Stratton also had a great tournament finishing in a four way tie for first place. However due to the way the tie breakers worked he was bumped out of the medals but did bring home about $18 in prize money.
Ian Enns from Barwick also went to the tournament. He received 2.5 points out of five and tied for second in his age group.
2.5 points or more and a player qualifies for the Northern Ontario Provincial Chess Championships to be held in Thunder Bay this October.