The night I became a chess player

I wasn’t a chess player… until tonight.

The last time I played was a few months ago, and before that…well, I can’t really say I ever played chess. I only knew how the pieces moved. That was it. And I remember this joke about chess I know from a long time, or maybe not a joke, but a similar story as in the real life: the King may be the most important piece on the board, but it’s the Queen who has the most powerful moves. The King might be the head, but the Queen — she’s the neck, the one with all the flexibility and direction.

So when I somehow found myself accepting a challenge to play in the Ladies Championship, I wasn’t entirely sure what I’d just agreed to.

Before I realised what I’d done, the first game began. I didn’t win, but I didn’t lose them all either. What I did win was something unexpected: confidence, spending some quality time, and a reminder that trying something new can be its own kind of victory. And honestly, from what I could see, we all had a brilliant time!

Of course, everyone wants to win. But sometimes, even when you don’t win a match, you still walk away a winner.

Tonight, I started to play chess. And I liked it. I enjoyed the company, the atmosphere , the quiet tension before every move… and yes, the trophy! (We all got trophies, which made it even better). And I definitely want to keep playing!

I’ve always promised myself that I’ll start learning chess properly. I used to think I’d wait until I knew some strategies before really playing. But now I realise there’s no better time to start than right now.

I’m not making a career out of chess (at least not yet), but it turned out to be the perfect way to unwind after a long day of work.

And that’s what I wish for every woman who’s watching from the sidelines, curious but hesitant to join. Come and play. Don’t wait until you “know enough.”

Let’s learn a few moves together. Because the best way to understand the game… is simply to start playing. ♟️