Cil ethnic children at the Darahoa charity class compete at the 2026 Friendship Chess Tournament, using professional chess clocks for the first time. — Photos courtesy of Jane Nguyễn

ĐÀ LẠT — Cil ethnic children in Đà Lạt recently had their first chance to take part in a formal chess tournament, as part of the closing ceremony of the Happy Chess Project's fifth season, through the Darahoa charity class.

Held on Wednesday, the event combined the closing ceremony with the 2026 Friendship Chess Tournament, giving 50 children an opportunity to experience a chess competition under the supervision of coach Đặng Anh Quốc.

Over nearly two months, the children learned the basics of chess while developing their thinking skills and physical fitness. They were also introduced to tournament etiquette, including shaking hands with opponents, using chess clocks, following the rules and keeping calm whether they won or lost.

The tournament gave the children their first taste of the atmosphere and discipline of a formal chess event, helping them gain confidence and develop greater interest in the game.

Dr Nguyễn Trà Giang (centre) and children taking part in season five of the Happy Chess Project.

Dr Nguyễn Trà Giang, Vice President of the Việt Nam Chess Federation and founder of the Happy Chess Project, said every child deserves access to chess and quality education in an equal environment, regardless of where they are born or their circumstances.

“When I brought chess to Darahoa, I only hoped to give the children another opportunity to learn, play and become more confident. But the children have inspired me even more,” Giang said.

She said the 50 children had walked nearly 4km along mountain roads from their villages to attend classes and had not missed a single session during the nearly two-month programme.

“Their small steps, smiles and eagerness to learn are the motivation for Happy Chess to reach more children facing difficulties and bring them more opportunities,” she said.

Cil ethnic children walk along a path to attend classes at the Darahoa charity class in Đà Lạt.

The Darahoa programme was supported by the International Chess Federation and Chess.com, helping bring chess and its educational benefits to children in the area.

It also received support from sponsors including The Grand Ho Tram and KingViet Education to improve facilities and maintain regular training activities.

Alongside chess lessons and competitions, the children took part in physical activities. The closing ceremony also featured a Zumba performance by the children with coaches, bringing the programme to an end with a combination of learning, exercise and fun. — VNS

Cil ethnic children performing Zumba with coach Quý Trần.