City makes all the right moves at chess tests
The tournament was a huge success so much so that I have already been asked to stage the second European Union championship in Cork in 2006 something I have every intention of doing if I can raise the necessary funds.
The inaugural EU championship attracted 115 entries from 22 countries and the annual Cork chess congress attracted a record entry of 243.
I am confident that these numbers will increase significantly in 2006 if we are able to build on this year's success.
Apart from the wide publicity gained for Cork in particular, and Ireland in general, there was also a substantial financial benefit.
I calculate that the two tournaments brought in excess of €200,000 into the city's economy. As this is almost four times the expenditure budget, it represents an excellent return.
We have demonstrated this year that chess is a spectator sport, and that an international tournament can be staged successfully in Ireland.
There is nothing to prevent us repeating that success here in Cork in 2006 if the business community and local authorities are willing to support the venture financially.
And especially if the Government is willing to recognise chess as a sport and give it the same level of funding that other, similar activities receive.
Michael Burniston
Chairman
Cork Chess Club
Glengarriff
Co Cork
