Renju, often referred to as “Japanese checkers,” is particularly popular in post-Soviet countries and Eastern Europe. However, unlike Russian or international checkers, it is not yet regularly represented in official tournaments organized by global sports federations.
On July 6, Yerevan hosted the Renju European Youth Championship, and the results achieved by our country were truly unprecedented. Armenian boys and girls secured an impressive 11 medals across various age categories and time controls.
We are especially proud that three of these medals were won by students from Usum Educational Complex: Tatev Harutyunyan, Victoria Avagyan, and Alex Hambardzumyan.
A standout achievement came from Tatev Harutyunyan, who became European Champion in the under-9 age category.
No less important were the two bronze medals earned by Victoria Avagyan, who competed in the under-12 category in both rapid and classical time controls.
It is worth noting that Armenia had not seen such success in this sport before. That’s why these achievements can rightfully be described as historic and unprecedented.
Additionally, both of our medalists—coached by N. Alaverdyan—are also current national champions in 64-square checkers.
To not think freely is to not think at all!
