Chess Teams State Champs
![Chess Teams State Champs]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1740593446/d103org/grcqvfsb3hdqfwvttlzb/ChessTeam.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1740593446/d103org/grcqvfsb3hdqfwvttlzb/ChessTeam.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1740593446/d103org/grcqvfsb3hdqfwvttlzb/ChessTeam.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1740593446/d103org/grcqvfsb3hdqfwvttlzb/ChessTeam.jpg","width":1200}])
The Daniel Wright Chess teams competed last weekend in the IESA State Chess competition. Facing fierce competition from over 70 schools and 850 players, the sixth- and seventh-grade teams both finished first in state!
Sixth-grader Alex Pan and seventh-grader Alex Zhou finished undefeated and earned gold medals as state champions. Sixth-graders Ethan Chen and Luke Han were 1st runners-up, winning silver medals. Seventh-grader Bolt Chinerdene won 1st runner-up, taking home a silver medal. Colton Yu, Basim Kahn, and Bharath Aravind placed 2nd runners-up, securing bronze medals. Anir Erkhemsanaa, playing up a year, placed 2nd runner-up, earning a bronze medal.
The eighth-grade team competed with only four players, finishing in 21st place. However, both Sophia Davaasuren and Darsh Mehta earned 2nd runner-up bronze medals.
“Please join us in congratulating our talented chess team on their remarkable achievements!” said their coach, Doug Steffens. “Their hard work, determination, and sportsmanship truly embody the spirit of Daniel Wright. Well done, team!” Pictures are available in the school folder.