Chess legend to attend Cupertino ‘Chess Event’

Chess legend Phiona Mutesi, the primary subject of the inspirational book and Disney movie Queen of Katwe, is set to attend the “Chess Event” in Cupertino on Saturday, Aug. 25.

The event, which will feature simultaneous exhibitions, free-style chess games for all ages, a classical music trio, a food truck and a showing of Queen of Katwe on a giant outdoor screen, will take place from  5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Creekside Park, 10455 Miller Ave.

Mutesi grew up in the slums of Katwe in Uganda and, after attending a Sports Outreach Mission chess project as a girl, became a national Ugandan champion. She now attends Northwest University in Bellevue, WA on a full-tuition scholarship. She will be joined at the Cupertino event by fellow Sports Outreach Mission chess project participant Benjamin Mukumbya. He’s an expert level player and also a recipient of a full tuition scholarship at Northwest University.

The event is part of a new initiative by the City of Cupertino’s Recreation & Community Services department to bring 34 free, engaging, educational, and fun “Neighborhood Events” at 11 public parks. For more information on the events, click here.