Russian Trainer Readies Team SA for Chess Olympiad

In preparation for the Chess Olympiad taking place in Norway from 1 to 14 August 2014, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS), arranged for a Russian trainer to assist the team to be prepared for the tournament.

International Master Aleksander Lysenko arrived in South Africa in June to assist with training for all members of the team. He also trained clubs and top juniors during his three week stay in Cape Town.

On Thursday, 17 July, a Russian evening was held where IM Lysenko demonstrated his skill by playing a simultaneous display against 20 players. He ended the evening with a seminar on chess puzzles. IM Lysenko carried no papers and remembered all the puzzles by heart.

DCAS Chief Director of Sport and Recreation Advocate Lyndon Bouah announced the formation of a Russia/Western Cape club which will continue the Russia–Western Cape initiative.

A send–off for the South African team was held on Tuesday, 22 July before they depart to Norway on 31 July.