Mayor moves around with chess legend
CHESS ENTHUSIAST and Mayor of Greystones Stephen Stokes got to rub shoulders the legendary Garry Kasparov recently and gave the famous visitor a tour of Dublin.
Mayor Stokes commended the Irish Chess Union on bringing Kasparov to Ireland.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest chess players of all time, Kasparov was visiting Ireland as part of his campaign to become President of FIDE, the world governing body for chess.
‘It was great to have a meet and greet for Irish people in Dublin City,’ said Stephen. ‘Kasparov was very patient signing autographs and posing for dozens of pictures.' Chess players from Bray, Greystones, and Wicklow were in attendance including Mervyn Honner, John Joyce, Bernie Stokes and Seamus Duffy.
Mayor Stephen Stokes and former Senator Dan Boyle had a 45 minute meeting to discuss political matters and chess recognition.
Mayor Stokes secured a commitment from Kasparov that if elected FIDE President he will assist efforts to get chess recognised as a sport.
Furthermore Kasparov will push for chess to become a school subject.'This approach is positive,’ said Mayor Stokes.
‘Every child learns differently, but children who play chess often find other beneficial cognitive develop- ments.'
Following the meeting he gave Garry Kasparov a walking tour of Dublin City. Mayor Stokes concluded by endorsing Garry Kasparov for FIDE President.