Over 100 Children to Compete in Merthyr’s Popular Schools Chess Tournament

The Great Merthyr Schools Chess Tournament returns on Friday 3rd July at Dowlais Community Centre — with over 100 young players competing for trophies, medals, and glory.

More than 100 children from schools across Merthyr Tydfil are expected to take part in The Great Merthyr Schools Chess Tournament on Friday 3rd July, running from 9:30am to 3:00pm at Dowlais Community Centre.

Now a firmly established event in the local school's calendar, the tournament features both a school team competition and an individual championship — giving players the chance to compete for their school as well as for personal honours.

This year’s event will also welcome Stephens and George Chess Ambassador Michael Adams, one of the UK’s greatest ever chess players. A former World Championship finalist and long-time British number one, Michael has represented England at the highest level for decades. During the day, he will take part in a simultaneous exhibition, playing multiple young competitors at the same time — giving local children a rare opportunity to test their skills against a world-class grandmaster.

Chess continues to play an increasingly important role in education across Merthyr Tydfil. Stephens and George Charitable Trust’s growing chess programme is helping to raise aspirations and life chances for young people and has been recognised nationally through its inclusion in the Hay Festival education programme.

The programme uses chess as a tool to build key life skills including focus, patience, problem-solving and resilience — supporting children both inside and outside the classroom and helping them develop confidence and ambition.

Helen Hughes, Charity Coordinator at Stephens and George Charitable Trust, said:
“Chess is a powerful tool for raising life chances. It teaches children how to think ahead, stay calm under pressure, and believe in their ability to succeed. We’ve seen first-hand how it builds confidence, improves concentration, and inspires young people to aim higher. To see so many children taking part — and to have opportunities like playing against a grandmaster — is something truly special for Merthyr.”

Every participant will receive a certificate, with medals awarded across categories and a trophy presented to the winning school team. It promises to be a full and exciting day of competitive chess.

The tournament has attracted local business support, with Merthyr car dealership Thomas and Davies Citroën among the sponsors backing this year’s event. Headline sponsorship is currently being finalised.

The event has also drawn national media interest, with BBC Wales attending to showcase the importance of the tournament and highlight its impact on young people and how it is helping to raise life chances across the community.

Organisers are inviting the wider Merthyr community to come and cheer on the next generation of chess players as they battle it out across the boards.