The chess club at The Varnett School Southeast continues to impress.
During the Street Olympics Friday, Aug. 3, at NRG Arena, Isaiah Johnson finished in first place with an undefeated performance; Joel Eugene Onyejiaka placed second and Curtis Johnson earned honorable mention. All participated in the advanced category, said Mr. Lonnie Reynolds, Varnett’s athletic director. Each played two matches in the morning and two in the afternoon.
Isaiah is a fourth-grader this year, Joel enters the sixth grade and Curtis starts the fifth grade. Isaiah and Curtis are brothers.
“Our chess club continues to strive for excellence,” Mr. Reynolds said. “Our young people are making great strides.”
Click here for photos from Street Olympics and previous events
The Southeast campus is adopting a chess curriculum this year and Mr. Reynolds said the long-term plan is to expand the chess program throughout the district.
In 1987, Harris County Commissioner El Franco Lee created the Precinct One Street Olympics Program. Commissioner Rodney Ellis kicked off the event this year.
Top photo: Clockwise, Mr. Richard Burton, coach; Mr. Lonnie Reynolds, Varnett's athletic director; Joel Eugene Onyejiaka and Isaiah Johnson
Bottom photo: Curtis Johnson, right