3Cs are tops for a record second time

WINNERS: 3Cs Chess Club chairman Steve Rigby (left) receives the award from Julian Clissold of the English Chess Federation Board

DELIGHTED Oldham chess club members are at the top of their game after achieving an historic first.

The 3Cs Chess Club in Lees has become the first in the country to be English Chess Federation Club of the Year for the second time. The club previously won in 2006, but following an incredible, championship-winning season in which county teams throughout the country were beaten, they have won again.

Over-the-moon members were presented with a certificate and 10 chess boards by the ECF at their St Edwards Community Centre base.

“To be awarded it twice is such an incredible achievement and we are very honoured,” said club coach Roger Glover, whose two sons Richard and Robert were both international players.

“It’s amazing that little Oldham beat the likes of Yorkshire, Lancashire and Greater Manchester clubs.”

The club — which has around 100 members — is also the proud home of chess grandmaster Steve Gordon (26), who was discovered by the club at a primary school in Shaw, and junior female international Phoebe Price (14).

Their first team is top of Manchester Chess Federation’s A Division for the third year running and has been top 13 times in the last 15 years.

“The club has a way of coaching which encourages the youngsters to learn and develops their confidence,” said Roger.

“It’s a great sport to get involved in because it focuses on the individual and their achievements and helps them develop responsibility for themselves.”

twitter: @GillPottsOC