Chess champion Zoha prepares to represent England

By Ben Fitzgerald - 21 February 2017

Community

Eight-year-old chess player Zoha Ashraf is preparing herself to represent England against some of the finest young minds in the world.

The Brook Field School pupil from Peatmoor has been selected for the England Junior Squad at the World School Chess Championships in Romania on April 21.

Zoha regularly takes part in tournaments, having been recognised by the English Chess Federation as the highest ranked player in her age group at the age of seven.  But this tournament will represent her biggest challenge to date.

During her 10-day competition, Zoha will play one game each day against other similarly ranked players in her age category - often spending hours over the game.

She said: “I’m looking forward to it. I’m a bit nervous but it should be good fun to go up against other people from different countries.”

She explained that her play style was aggressive with her preferring to take the lead and shape the game.

Zoha has been working closely with her coach Paul Girdlestone who provides weekly coaching and analysis to help her improve.

She said: “Whenever I play a game, I record all the moves I make and then we look back over what I did and try to work out what worked and what didn’t. It helps me to improve.”

Zoha’s father Imran, who also helps with her chess explained that one of his daughter’s strengths was her ability to take a measured approach to her game and to plan carefully.

“She’s very good at calmly thinking about her game - this is something that can be difficult for many youngsters.”

Zoha started learning the game as a six-year-old at an after school chess club run by local councillor Keith Williams with the help of his wife Fran.

Imran explained that Keith was able to recognise that Zoha could have the makings of a talented player.

“We try not to push her too hard. It can be very tiring for her and we understand that.

“We work hard to allow her to balance her chess with her school life and socialising with her friends. We’re taking it one step at a time.”

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