As I sit down to reflect on the end of the Chai N Thai Chess Tournament 2024, I feel a sense of accomplishment and pride for the tournament that has just completed. The hours of preparation, the challenges faced, and the lessons learned all come together to form a tapestry of experiences that will stay with me for a long time.
There were games of positivity, of missed opportunities and of miscalculations, but each setback
only fueled player’s determination to do better in the next game.
As the rounds went by, I found something in every chess player join, some are strong in the opening, middlegame, strategy and endgame which give insight to my chess teaching in all of my private students. Some are showing endurance, physical and mental fortitude. Some are playing seriously and some are playing for fun, but through it all, there was a camaraderie among them, a shared love for the game that transcended language and culture.
In the end, the tournament was decided with the real winner that show his skill and experience. Remember, after the tournament, all of us are winner, some got the rewards, some learnt
valuable lessons and experiences.
From left to right: Gerald Ferriol (Organizer/Chief Arbiter), Hajji Bayona (2nd place), Javier Amores Gago (Champion), Chawachart Kuntee (3rd place), Pradeep (Chai N Thai manager), Deerasit Napat (participant)
From top left to bottom: Victoria Torteau (only strong female), Her brother James Torteau (the youngest), Mike Raziel (the oldest player).
After I gave all the prizes, trophies and certificates. I feel a swell of emotions - pride in my
achievement, gratitude for the support of my co-organizer Edathil Jayakrishnan, my girlfriend Baby Elisa Rodriguez, Chai N Thai manager and staff, my friends and family, also the happiness and memories we gave to all the staff and players.
But more than the accomplishment itself, what I will carry with me from this experience are the lessons learned along the way. The importance of preparation, the value of resilience and adaptability, the joy of shared passion and camaraderie - all of these have left an indelible mark on me and will continue to shape my approach to not just chess but life itself.
Chess has always been more than just a game to me; it is a journey of self-discovery, a test of character, and a source of endless fascination and joy. And as I look forward to the next tournament, the next opportunity to test my skills and grow as a player and as a person, I do so with a renewed sense of purpose and passion for the game that has brought me so much fulfillment and joy.
Coach Gerald was playing before and after the tournament with the champion.
Thanks for reading and good luck to our chess and life journey.
by Coach Gerald Ferriol