Chess tournaments, like libraries, are traditionally quiet places – unless they are junior tournaments.

The Blacktown Centenary Chess tournament co-hosted by Blacktown City Council and Rooty Hill RSL Chess Club proved to be no exception.

Thirty-seven competitors aged from six to 17 fought for the crown in a cheerful, noisy atmosphere.

Sometimes opponents seemed mismatched as when experienced tournament players like 17-year-old Bob Liang faced first-timer 7-year-old Andrew Pan, but the appearance could be deceptive.

Playing lightning chess, Andrew made his older opponent work hard for victory.

Bob won the tournament with 9.5 points from 10 games ahead of Joshua Lau, 9, who has many senior tournaments under his belt, and a tie for third between Andrew Pan and Michael Ngo, 17.