12.06.16 Ellsworth Elementary and Middle School hosted the first of three chess competitions for area K-8 students on Tuesday, December 6th. School participating included Stillwater Montessori, Fort O'Brien, Bucksport, Ellsworth, and Lamoine. Thanks to Ellsworth Elementary and Middle School for hosting and to Coach Adam Wilson for organizing and directing the event. The next two K-8 chess competitions will be held on Tuesday, January 10th and Wednesday, February 8th. See ChessMaine.net/events for more information.

A good-sized crowd of K-8 players from at least five schools participated.

Students took their games seriously and quietly contemplated their options.

Playing Black is fun (especially if you have a winning position).

Ready for battle!

Coaches were on hand to offer support and advice during teachable moments.

Where there are chess kids it always helps to have food!

All that brain power needs sustenance.

A big thank you to Ellsworth coach Adam Wilson for organizing and directing the event.

We'll be back in Eagle Country for the next K-8 Chess Gathering on Tuesday, January 10th.