Belmopan mayor launches summer chess camp for youth of the Capital City

Belmopan Mayor Pablo Cawich, with organizational support from his wife, Margarita Cawich, has organized a chess camp for children and teenagers in the capital.  The initiative is being conducted in collaboration with Belmopan Comprehensive School and is open to residents between the ages of eight and sixteen. It forms part of efforts to increase interest in chess among young people while providing them with a structured recreational activity during the summer.  Participants are being introduced to the rules and fundamentals of the game, along with skills such as strategic thinking, concentration, patience and problem-solving. The initiative also coincides with activities marking World Chess Day, observed on July 20.  Michael Gomez of the East Cayo Chess Club is serving as the camp’s chess instructor. He says the programme is not limited to technical instruction but also allows participants to enjoy themselves while learning and competing with their peers.

Organizers hope the camp will encourage participants to continue playing chess and support the development of the game within Belmopan.