A 16-year-old boy from Brackenfell caught a flight to Turkey on Sunday to represent South Africa at the World Youth Chess Olympiad which kicked off Monday.
Ethon Felix has been playing chess since he was a little boy.
Ethon, who is in Grade 10 at the Protea Heights Academy, is part of a group of ten teens, four from Cape Town, all hoping to make their mark on the international chess scene.
But he almost did not make his flight after the family struggled to raise the R80 000 needed for the trip.
Just in the nick of time, the teen now has the chance to be recognised on a world stage, thanks to a local businessman.
The owner of Engen Ruwari in Blackheath, Florys Hamman, decided to fund the boy’s entire trip.
The garage is situated in Kruis Road and Hamman said he was proud to help Ethon.
“I am extremely proud to sponsor this young man and his dream to represent us.
“He leaves the country as an ambassador of chess and plenty of new doors will open for him. I wish our team well as they head overseas,” Hamman said.
Ethon’s dad, Ebeneza, said he was very grateful to Hamman.
“This child got his Western Province colours in 2015 and started playing at 9.
“He makes me proud and has a passion that is only bettered by his commitment.”
Meanwhile, an elated Ethon said on Sunday before his flight that he is ready to represent SA and make everyone proud of him and his team.
“We will come home victorious,” and excited Ethon said.
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