Curro Westbrook learner places top 30 at SA Chess U10 Championship

16 April 2026

A strong showing over nine rounds saw Curro Westbrook learner Colton Viljoen finish among the top U10 players in the country at the South African Chess Championship.

The result builds on his earlier national performance, where he placed 11th in South Africa at the Mzansi Inter-Provincial Youth Chess Championship in December 2025.

 

 

Competing on a national stage

The championship, held from 28 March to 2 April at Kgaswane Country Lodge in the North West province, brings together leading junior players who qualify through provincial events. The tournament follows a Swiss format, with extended time controls that test concentration, planning and decision-making.

 

 

Consistent performance

Colton scored 5 out of 9 points, recording 4 wins, 2 draws and 3 losses. He shared the points total of players ranked around 20th, with tie-breaks placing him 28th overall.

‘Competing against some of the best young players in the country, Colton delivered an impressive performance in the highly competitive U10 section,’ the school said.

Each round required adjustment and focus. Colton showed the ability to recover between games and maintain consistency throughout the event.

 

Building experience

National tournaments provide exposure to different playing styles and stronger opposition. Colton’s results reflect growth in strategy and match awareness over extended play.

His participation also signals steady progress through school and provincial chess structures, with opportunities to continue developing within national pathways.

‘Each game played contributed to valuable experience and demonstrated his dedication to improving his craft,’ the school concluded.