About 100 students competed in the Regional Interschool Chess Competition, vying for a position in the state school championships. 

Competitors came from Trinity College in Colac, Buninyong Primary School, Clarendon and Candlebark School, participating in three divisions – primary, middle, and open secondary. 

Clarendon chess co-ordinator Chris Seagrave said each player played seven games, with results tallied for a winner in each division. 

“Chess really is a sport for the brain – it teaches problem solving, time management and thinking under pressure,” Mr Seagrave said. 

He said the school hosted a primary-only tournament day earlier in the year, to prepare the younger students for bigger competitions. 

Clarendon grade 6 pupil Madeleine Gibson won a medal in the primary division, winning four of her seven games. “I really enjoy playing. I don’t mind if I win or lose,” Madeleine said.