I think it was the second day of my chess tournament when I played the longest game in my life. My opponent was probably around 11, he wore glasses and an orange T-shirt. He was an opponent whom I challenged in one of the earlier tournaments. Just before the game, I felt butterflies in my stomach and my palms were sweaty. I was extremely nervous, for I had lost to him before. This time round, I was in a winning position, but in the end he won.
During that 2 hour match, Jabez had already finished his game, and had gone with the rest of the family to Yishun Park. What I heard later that afternoon was that Samuel had a close encounter with a snake at the park! Oh, how I wished I could see that snake. It would have been my very first encounter with one.
My afternoon, game, was an opponent who was different from others. His name was Fabian. I was seated waiting for my opponent when I saw a boy in a wheelchair. He was to be my opponent! His head was tilted to one side, and his arms were weak so I had to help him move his pieces and press the clock for him. I have to admit that I thought he would be an easy opponent, but he certainly proved me wrong. He was better then I thought, and in the end we had a draw.
This chess tournament is one I would never forget. For after many days of praying, God has finally answered my prayer. Now I have qualified to become a member of the Chess Junior Squad!
