Brayden Baker
A half a point kept the Chanute High School chess team from a first-place win at their first tournament of the season on Saturday in Arma.
The team, which was split into two groups due to their numbers, faced an unexpected challenge when some of their players had to compete against each other in a few rounds. Despite this setback, the team maintained focus and delivered strong performances en route to a second-place finish.
“This tournament tested our strength as a team in more ways than one, and each player stepped up,” Chanute High School Chess Coach Kyle Gregg said.
“It’s these kinds of moments that not only help us grow as chess players, but also bring us closer together.”
Eric Erbe led the team, finishing in second place individually, while Nathan Studebaker secured third place. Other top finishers included Brayden Baker in 9th place and Jacob Hurtado in 10th.
One of the students playing for the team was Madison Lopez, who happened to be this year’s Mexican Fiesta Queen. Due to this, she had to go back to Chanute before starting her last game. “I was pretty upset because I had just lost to Nathan,” Madison said. “I wasn’t able to redeem myself the next round.” Despite this, she left with 3 wins, securing her 7th place on the varsity team.
Lilah Grewing was among the 10 players who earned a spot on the varsity team. However, she declined the coveted spot, as she has to work on many of the tournament days. Due to this, Aryona Stephenson was raised to Varsity, allowing her to play at more tournaments. Aryona is a Senior this year and this is her first year playing chess scholastically. “At first I was just told I made varsity then I was told it was because Lilah gave up her place,” said Stephenson. “I felt bad because she earned it and I didn’t.”
The team will take a break next weekend before competing in a varsity tournament in Topeka on Oct. 12 at Washburn Rural High School. They are also preparing for their own 44th Annual Blue Comet Chess Tournament, scheduled for Oct. 19.
All photos taken by Brayden Baker | CHS
Jacob Hurtado
Eric Erbe
