So many times we hear only sad things in the news, but this story is about over coming and achieving. There is an 8-year-old boy, who currently lives in a homeless shelter, that has gone on to win the top prize, for his age division, at the New York State Chess Championships, which was held March 9-10, 2019 in Saratoga Springs.

This young man is named Tanitoluwa Adewumi (he goes by Tani) he claimed the title of New York State Primary Chess Champion. He is also a refugee from Nigeria. Tani's teach had noticed his aptitude for the game and was able to wave all of the fees involved in not only joining the elementary schools team, but was also able to help with travel expenses, etc.

Tani's next goal is to become the youngest Grandmaster of Chess (the previous youngest Grandmaster was 12 years of age). Can he do it? There is a goFund me set up to help Tani and his family, for more information click here. Artist Camila Cabello even donated $10,000.

To find places in the Hudson Valley where you can learn to play chess or to brush up on your skills, click here. 

Listen to the WRRV Morning Grind With Brandi and Nick weekday mornings from 6AM to 10AM on 92.7/96.9 WRRV. Stream us live through the website, your Alexa-enabled device, Google Home or the WRRV mobile app.

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