16-year-old Jack Mizzi – reigning Junior Chess Champion (under 20s category) – managed to beat five European pro players at the 4th ESNA European Small National Individual Chess Championship.

Despite being the youngest and lowest-rated competitor, Jack managed to beat representatives from Cyprus, Jersey, Liechtenstein, San Marino, and Luxembourg.

Jack managed a draw against Guernsey and lost games to the Faroe Islands, Andorra, and Monaco.

Andorra and Monaco were each represented by Grandmasters – one of the highest titles a chess player can attain.

Nonetheless, these opponents didn’t discourage Jack, as he managed to finish the tournament in fifth place out of ten participants, one of the best results ever attained by a Maltese plater at such competition.

“I wish to thank all who helped Jack, either directly or indirectly,” Jack’s father, Adrian wrote.

“Thanks to the Malta Chess Federation for entrusting him with this difficult mission, I believe that Jack certainly rose to the occasion,” he continued.

Jack started the tournament with a performance rating of 1863. However, following his stellar showing, this rose to 2234.

Well done, Jack!

Facebook/Adrian Mizzi