interested in the ancient game of chess.

A total of 36 youngsters are attending a two-week chess camp, held at the Bermuda College, which began on Monday and concludes on July 10. The 34 boys and two girls range in age from six to 14 and their abilities vary from newcomer to advanced.

Mr. Salman, a chess master from Long Island, New York, is teaching everything from the basics to different methods of obtaining a check-mate and other strategies.

In addition to the traditional board and chess pieces, the programme uses computerised tutorials and simulation software to help the children.

Camp organiser Riquette Bonne-Smith has also invited several Bermudian chess players to come and teach the children.

She believes that chess promotes logical thought and problem-solving skills and also helps to develop a child's concentration. She said that important life skills such as self-reliance and good sportsmanship are sharpened by playing the game.

"Chess is fun, and can be a youngster's first opportunity to realise that thinking can be enjoyable. It's a trait which easily transfers over to other activities, including academic performance,'' she said.

Mr. Salman said he learned chess from his older brother when he was seven, but did not compete seriously until he was 14.

"I met someone who played in tournaments and went to chess camp, which really got me interested in the game,'' he said.

"Chess players form a very diverse group -- you can meet almost any type of person and you don't need a degree to play.

"Chess has also provided opportunities for me to travel around the world.'' Mr. Salman has been a chess master since 1992 and is one of Long Island's top ten players, where individuals must earn a specified rating after playing in several tournaments before becoming a chess master.

In addition to practice, chess players often improve their skills through lots of study, including reading books and manuals on the subject.

Mr. Salman provides lessons for enthusiasts of all ages and specialises in teaching tactics, end games, tournament preparation, team coaching, planning, thinking, and other psychological factors.

He has also written articles for various chess publications.

For the past five years, Mr. Salman has competed in the annual Bermuda International Open, held each February.

His teaching philosophy is simple.

"Concentrate on flexible knowledge and problem solving, minimise memorisation... and make chess fun,'' he said.

Two tournaments -- on July 5 and 12 -- will be held in conjunction with the camp.