After claiming first place in this year’s Norway Chess School Teams tournament, a group of students from Stangeland Elementary School in Sandnes travelled to Spain in November to compete in the international final. The trip was both their prize and a key element of the exchange programme we organise in partnership with our sponsor RMD.

The team consisted of Didrik Johannessen Øie (13), Ved Rithvik Takkellapati (11), Nikshith Manikandan (11), Mikkel Kvammen (10) and Olivia Blaauw (10), accompanied by adults Rune Kvammen, Kristoffer Blaauw and team leader Ivbjørn Nimki.

The tournament brought together 64 teams from Spain, Poland and Norway, with matches played on large chessboards made from recycled rubber – the same type used during the Norway Chess School Teams tournament in Stavanger.

The Norwegian team delivered an impressive performance throughout the day, and finished third in their group.

– The children cooperated extremely well and really played as a team. They showed respect, growth and a fantastic sense of unity, says team leader Ivbjørn Nimki.

An inclusive experience for children and families alike

For the Norwegian players, this was their first time competing in a chess tournament abroad. The atmosphere in Spain made a big impact – not only on the children, but also on the adults accompanying them. Music played throughout the venue, the children were interviewed during the event, and the entire day was designed to make chess fun, accessible and engaging for families.

– Everything is set up to boost interest in chess and turn the tournament into an experience. Many people associate chess with something very serious, but here they open the doors to everyone – even those who don’t usually play. It creates a bigger audience and helps recruit new players. Even those who weren’t competing — from parents and siblings to grandparents — got the chance to try out and play chess on boards in the venue,” says Nimki.

The Norwegian group also explored León through museum visits, a walk through the city’s cathedral and an official visit to the mayor’s office.

An experience they won’t forget

Despite not advancing to the top 16, the Norwegian team returned home with an experience they will not forget. Representing Norway, meeting players from Spain and Poland, and taking part in such a large event proved both motivating and inspiring.

– They had an amazing time, and it was really special for them to play abroad for the first time, says Nimki.