The Full Story
About
Founded in the early 1970s, White Knights Chess Club has built a proud legacy through generations of players. Here, we honour our past while shaping the future of chess in West Wales.
History
Chess in Llanelli dates back to 1835, when local players challenged Swansea gentlemen to postal chess matches. The original Llanelli Chess Club was formally established in the late 1870s, competing in the South Wales Challenge Cup and West Wales Chess League. The club enjoyed periods of success, winning the West Wales League in 1934, 1939, 1946, 1963, 1965, and 1977, though it faced periods of inactivity between the wars and after 1946 until its revival in 1962.
White Knights Chess Club was formed in 1973, initially meeting at the YMCA while the original Llanelli club gathered at the Deaf Institute. Led by Colin Wills and composed primarily of former Llanelli Chess Club players, White Knights entered two teams in the West Wales League and went unbeaten in their first season in Division Two. When the original Llanelli club eventually folded around 1985, White Knights became the primary chess organisation in the town.
Llanelli has hosted several chess luminaries throughout its history. World Champion Emanuel Lasker visited twice, in 1895 and 1908, playing simultaneous exhibitions against local players. In 1891, blindfold champion J.H. Blackburne faced 23 club members at the Masonic Hall. Perhaps most notably, future World Champion José Raúl Capablanca visited in October 1919, taking on 40 opponents simultaneously and conceding only five draws. This rich chess heritage continues with White Knights Chess Club today.
White Knights Today
White Knights Chess Club continues to grow as a vibrant and welcoming community for players of all backgrounds and skill levels. Building on a rich history of success, we’ve recently competed in prestigious tournaments like the European Chess Club Cup, while also securing league titles and being crowned WCPL champions. These achievements highlight the dedication and talent of our members, but we're not resting on our laurels.
Our focus is on fostering an environment where players can improve, compete, and connect. From supporting local schools to hosting events that bring players together, we remain committed to growing the game of chess both within the club and in the broader community. With a bright future ahead, White Knights is a place where everyone can make their move and be part of something special.
