International Chess Club Shines at the National Schools Team Chess Championships

On 13 September 2026, Hwa Chong Institution’s High School International Chess Club achieved outstanding results at the 67th National Schools Team Chess Championships. Our Under-14 teams swept the West Zone podium, while our Under-16 Team 3 emerged as National Champions and West Zone Champions. Tzer Kai, Vice-Captain of the International Chess Club, reflects on the pressure of competing for his team, a crucial final-round victory and the camaraderie behind the club’s achievements.

Written by: Khor Tzer Kai (3P1, 2026) 

For me, one of the greatest challenges during our preparation was learning to manage the pressure of representing not only myself, but also my teammates and the school. Chess may appear to be an individual game, but in a team competition, the result on every board matters. We therefore had to look beyond our individual performances and learn to encourage one another through both victories and setbacks.

For my team, Under-16 Team 1, the final round proved particularly memorable. After all my teammates drew their games, our hopes of securing a West Zone podium finish rested on my remaining game. Although my position appeared to be heading towards a draw, I managed to turn it into a victory, securing third place in the West Zone for our team. More than the individual win, what mattered most to me was being able to deliver the result when my teammates needed it.

Throughout our preparations, our Executive Committee (EXCO) also played an important role in bringing the club together. Beyond organising training and preparing the teams for the tournament, EXCO members constantly encouraged us and fostered a supportive environment in which everyone felt they were contributing towards a shared goal. Through these efforts, we grew closer not only as teammates, but also as a community united by our passion for chess.

We would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our coach, Grandmaster Bong, and our teacher-in-charge, Ms Quah Lee Hwang. GM Bong’s patient guidance and dedication throughout the season helped us sharpen our skills and approach every match with greater confidence. Ms Quah also supported us throughout our preparations, providing food for the team and regularly checking in on us during training sessions. Their care and encouragement played an important role in our achievements.

As the team’s Vice-Captain, I hope every member will continue to train consistently, support one another and cherish the friendships and memories forged through the game.

Looking back, our achievements at NST 2026 were about more than our final rankings. The tournament reminded us of the importance of perseverance, sportsmanship and trust in one another. I am proud of what we accomplished together and look forward to seeing our club continue to grow.