“Chess is for everyone” is one of the mottos of the Chess Institute of Canada; by extension, “chess everywhere” is also part of the mandate! CIC was an enthusiastic participant on the September 14-15 Roncesvalles Polish Festival weekend.
Players of all ages played over-the-board on tables and played chess at scale on the CIC oversized board. CIC instructors were on-site to encourage new players, discuss the nuances of the game with experienced hands, and share news about the Chess Institute’s September 27 PA Day Camp, as well as its plans to offer camps to students in the GTA for every PA day this coming school year.
Conversations were had both in English and en français, with the CIC being the only organization in the area offering French-language instruction both in schools and online.
Presence at this festival kicks off a renewed focus at CIC to seek out partners at cultural events and festivals in Toronto where the organization can share the joy and magic of chess with its giant chess set, over-the-board table play, and enthusiastic instructors there to encourage new players to try the game and seasoned players to share their knowledge.
“Chess is a universal language,” says Matt Shepherd, Executive Director of the Chess Institute of Canada. “It’s a fantastic fit at any event; events that celebrate the diversity of Toronto, and Canada, are particularly apt, as people from all backgrounds and from all cultures can connect over the board. We’re looking forward to being more present at events and helping share and spread the amazing culture of chess across the city in the coming years.”
Organizations interested in having CIC and the magic of chess at their events — at no charge — can contact us.
