Games / World

Ukrainian refugee turns Otago chess champion

13:25 pm on 10 July 2024

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Otago Chess club on Maitland St, Dunedin is the countries oldest incorporated society. One of it's newest members is Ukrainian Alex Nedyhalov.

Alex left the Ukraine - escaping via occupied Crimea - after Russia invaded his town, and the food started running out. He ended up in Dunedin - where his mother has lived since 2008. Since arriving he's spent nearly every evening at the club, becoming the Otago chess champion. His goal is to train other players, and eventually set up a chess in schools programme... he shares his story with Jesse.

Photo: supplied