The major honours were again claimed by 26-year-old Joseph Friar who won the club’s President’s Cup, Lightning Cup and the showpiece Club Championship, which he has now won for the last two years. Joe also won the Handicap and Quick-Play tournaments.
Meanwhile, the club also saw two other players take home individual titles. Brandon Wilkes was the winner of the Shuttle Shield for the first time and, also took home the Graham Bunn Trophy. Cameron Henry, 15, won the Minor Club Championship for the fourth year in a row and was also awarded the Clive Billinge Memorial Award for his contribution to the club.
To top off the season Kidderminster also won the Worcester & District League, whilst the Division Two team won the Worcestershire Rapid Play League – led by Cameron Henry who became the club’s youngest ever captain. Meanwhile, the Division Three team also won the Dudley & District League.
The club’s first team also finished runners-up in the elite Wolverhampton & District League Division One.
John Wrench, President of Kidderminster Chess Club said: “It has been another tremendous chess season for the club with so many well-deserved winners and some extremely strong performances in leagues across the region.
“Joseph continues to be an inspiration to everyone at the club and one of Worcestershire’s leading players. We’re also extremely proud of Brandon for his hard-fought wins, whilst Cameron continues to build his reputation as a formidable teenage player. He made history by becoming our youngest ever captain in the club’s 180-years and continues to show a brilliant attitude.
“Overall, we can look back on a great chess season and it’s been encouraging to see many new players join the club, including juniors, beginners and more experienced players. We look forward to matching or exceeding our successes in the coming season.
Founded in 1845, Kidderminster Chess Club is one of the oldest in the UK. Members meet from 7pm every Wednesday at the Habberley Club on Truro Drive, Kidderminster. New members are welcome and further details are available by contacting John Wrench through 07913 227402, or by emailing j.wrench11@gmail.com
