Just one year after learning the game of chess, Grade 1 student Julian Gallo of Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Elementary School has already made his mark on the provincial and national stage.
Julian began playing chess at the age of five after joining the Hamilton Chess Academy. Over the past year, he has steadily developed his skills through training sessions and tournament competition, quickly emerging as one of the province’s top young players.
His journey to the top began with a qualifying tournament in Thornhill, where he earned a spot at the 2026 Ontario Chess Challenge. Competing in April in Brampton against the best elementary school chess players from across Ontario, Julian delivered a flawless performance. He finished with a perfect 5–0 record to capture the Grade 1 Ontario championship title.
The impressive result earned Julian an invitation to represent Team Ontario at the Canadian Chess Challenge, held May 17–18 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Facing top Grade 1 competitors from across the country, Julian continued his strong play, finishing with four wins and one draw to place sixth overall. He also helped Team Ontario secure the Provincial Cup championship.
Julian’s success has continued beyond the national stage. He also received an invitation to compete in the Ontario Schools Team Chess Championship on May 24, where teams of four students represent their schools in competition against other schools from across the province.
