Chess: ‘I was beating adults at chess when I was eight’
BBC News NI reports on Ethan, a young chess prodigy who started playing at six and has since become the youngest Ulster chess champion in history.
Ethan, now 13, recalls his early success: "When I was eight or nine I was beating adults at chess and they were raging when they lost…" He attributes his natural ability and dedication to practice, particularly his strong mathematical skills.
Ethan plays for Strand Chess Club in east Belfast and has represented Ireland across various age groups. Last week, he achieved a significant milestone – becoming the youngest Ulster chess champion of all time, defeating players aged 30-65.
"I quite like the thinking part… the opening preparation," Ethan shares about his love for the game. His mother, Eimear Savage, attributes her son’s success to his own hard work and determination, with family support along the way.
Ethan has represented Ireland internationally, traveling to destinations like Paris, the Netherlands, Germany, and Estonia for tournaments, showcasing his talent on the global stage.
