Three boys from 2nd Ahoghill Company Section travelled to Ardstraw, County Tyrone as they competed in the second round of this year's national chess competition.
Our Round 1 opponents, 113th Belfast, were unable to field a team and so we had been given a bye directly into Round 2 to face 1st Ardstraw.
The team, which was made up of Dan Brown, James Brown and William McCartney, met in Brookside carpark ahead of the lengthy drive to Ardstraw Presbyterian Church Hall.
A total of nine matches were played, organised into three series of three concurrent matches. This meant each boy would face all three members of the opposing team.
It was a tough encounter, and closer than the following results show –
Dan – Drew one, lost two.
James – Lost three.
William – Won one, lost two.
This meant that 1st Ardstraw progressed to the Irish Finals with a final score of 7½ – 1½.
To alleviate the disappointment and the lengthy journey, the boys were treated to a McDonalds as we passed through Ballymena on the way home.
Many thanks to the boys for giving up their Thursday evening to represent the Company, and we wish 1st Ardstraw success as they continue in the competition.