SA junior chess champion Raegan Morgan ready for international challenge

Morgan will compete in Uganda this week representing South Africa at the Africa Youth Chess Championships in Entebbe from 14 to 23 May 2026, after she qualified by placing first in the under-10 division at the 2026 SA Closed Chess Championships.

She has also ensured qualification to the World Chess Championships, which will take place in Georgia from 15 to 28 June 2026.

Speaking exclusively to SABC Sport, Morgan said she was excited to learn that she would be competing in Uganda.

“I was really excited because it’s in a few days and it’s my first international trip and I get to miss school for a few days,” said Morgan.

Morgan revealed that although she does not know who she could come up against she is wary of the Egyptian opponents.

“I don’t know them but I know the Egyptians are very good. They are close to Europe and they get practice and win.”

The 9-year-old, who has a chess rating of 1586, said she is extremely excited for the World Championships.

“I am really excited to go to that one because it’s in Europe, first of all, and I am getting really good challenges, and next year, if I make it this far again, I will be more familiar.”

Morgan mentioned that playing chess comes with a lot of hard work and sacrifices, especially when she has to miss out on birthday parties, but at the same time she didn’t want to miss out on the chess because she risks missing out on a big moment.

Her parents have started a back-a-buddy campaign to raise funds for her travel, accommodation as well as her private coaching expenses.