2010
Since I was twenty I’ve played the occasional game of chess, it’s a great game. Surf trip or kayaking adventure, a chess board was always packed. This pic is of me with 2 great mates/ chess rivals, Goona and Luke.
Luke and I are pictured having a game. We’re camped at a remote beach after a big day of paddling.
Early in my stroke recovery I could never get through a game because it mentally exhausted me. I’d get so tired I would need to take a nap! With time and practice I gradually improved until I regained my ‘chess fitness’. Luke used to beat me 8/10 games. Since having a stroke, I’d beat Luke in 8/10 games. It’s very strange. I think it’s probably due to me having more time to practice. Luke claims that the surgeon must have tinkered with my brain and altered my ability to play chess. Gotta enjoy the little wins!
