Kalispell Youth Shine at National Chess Championships

Kalispell Youth Compete at National Chess Tournaments

Three young chess champions from Kalispell, Montana, recently represented their state at national tournaments in Norfolk, Virginia. David Wilson, a fifth grader at Edgerton Elementary, competed at the John D. Rockefeller III National Tournament of Elementary School State Champions, where he placed 32nd. Homeschooled siblings, Tirien Bodonyi-Kovacs and Eliel Bodonyi-Kovacs, competed in the Ruth Haring National Girls’ Tournament of Champions and the Dewain Barber Tournament of Middle School Champions, respectively, both placing 35th.

The trio earned their spots at the national level by winning the 2024 Montana Chess Association State Scholastic Championship in their respective categories earlier in the year. This marked the first time that Kalispell had produced state scholastic chess champions, let alone three in one year.

Chess is a family affair for the Bodonyi-Kovacs and Wilsons, as they all learned to play from their fathers. The young players emphasized the importance of practice and perseverance in improving their skills, with each sharing their unique journey into the world of competitive chess.

The trio discussed the complexities of the game, the various strategies involved, and the importance of learning from mistakes. They also highlighted the thriving chess community in the Flathead Valley, where players of all ages and skill levels can come together to learn, play, and compete.

For those interested in joining the chess community in Kalispell, opportunities abound with local clubs and events offering a welcoming environment for players to hone their skills and enjoy the game. The success of these young champions serves as an inspiration for aspiring chess players in the area, showcasing the rewards of dedication and hard work in the world of competitive chess.