65 years a competitor
Tom O’Neill, Chairman of Dun Laoghaire Chess Club played in both of these championships, each time as a substitute.
In 1954 he played for Eoghan Ruadh Chess Club, in the 2nd replay of the final in Dundalk against Queens University Belfast.
He won his game to give his team a 4-2 win.
For historical and cultural reasons, each weekend, 3 matches were played on Saturday and 3 on Sunday.
The Eoghan Ruadh team was very strong and included Terry Kelly, Irish Champion 1954, Leinster Champions, Willie Staunton 55/56/57.
and PJ Murphy 62.

This year 65 years later, playing for Dun Laoghaire, finishing 6th.
Age is no barrier to playing chess, competitively or socially. Join your local club.