Checkmate: Buthsara's at the top of his game

It's a game that's over 1,500 years old and 600 million people play worldwide, and has experienced a resurgence in popularity after the hit Netflix show The Queen's Gambit. But for Year 10 student Buthsara, there's just one reason he loves chess:

"It really suits my analytical mind," he explains. "Sometimes you’ve only got 10 seconds to make a move, and that one moment can decide the whole game."

Ranked second in New Zealand for his age group, Buthsara’s journey began at the age of 10—which he calls a “late start" - after his dad introduced him to the game with a simple chessboard and soon became his first coach. From club matches to studying theory through YouTube tutorials and books, he built a calm, methodical approach to the game.

"You’ve got to understand the openings, tactics, strategies... there’s a lot of theory involved."

To put the complexity in perspective, by the third move of a game there can be over 9 million possible variations.

Next on his agenda is representing New Zealand at the Oceania Under 14 Youth Chess Championships in Brisbane this December. After placing second at regionals this year and helping his team reach nationals in Wellington last year, he’s excited to test his skills on a wider range of competitors.

• Chess Club meets every Monday and Thursday lunchtime in Room B15. Players of all experience levels are welcome. Other board games are also available to try.