### The Checkers Championship
Dear reader, believe it or not, there was a time when there were no cell phones, computers, or even televisions; radios barely existed. After finishing daily chores, families would gather at home, engaging in conversations or playing improvised games like “el acitrón de un fandango,” charades, guessing games, and intense rounds of checkers. On cold winter evenings, we’d huddle around a gas heater, adding a container of water on top to keep the air from drying out and sometimes adding chestnuts to roast and enjoy.
In this cozy setting, I honed my skills in checkers and eventually became the household champion. When I moved to Mexico City for my studies, I participated in the D.F. championship of checkers. For weeks, I immersed myself in the world of this board game, quickly advancing by eliminating many competitors.
For twelve days, checkers consumed my thoughts until I reached the final round against a tough opponent. Thanks to my extensive practice at home, I performed better and managed to reduce the game to my three pieces against his single one. Despite his expert maneuvering, our matches stalemated repeatedly as he avoided defeat after a careless first-game loss to me.
The championship required winning two out of three games, and the judges warned me that failing to win the second match in the morning would result in a tie. Determined, I skipped dinner, lay down, and replayed the game strategies in my mind until sleep took over. In the middle of the night, a brilliant, unprecedented move came to me in a dream. I woke up excited, confident that my unconscious mind had handed me the winning strategy.
The next morning, I arrived at the venue, greeted the judges, sat down opposite my opponent, and confidently declared, “I’ve already won.” As the game unfolded, it again came down to my three pieces against his one. I executed the move from my dream—something neither of us had ever seen before—and won the championship.
Dear reader, our subconscious minds are remarkable. Intensity and dedication to a subject can unlock new ideas and solutions we can’t fathom while awake. How often has an unexpected, insightful solution appeared to you, resolving an issue and leaving you happily fulfilled? Our brains, the magical computers given by God, sometimes need a different kind of “programming” to reveal their extraordinary potential.
José Galicot, a businessman based in Tijuana, can be reached at [email protected].
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### Additional Update: National Checkers Competitions and New Variations
#### Rising Popularity of Checkers in Schools
Recently, there has been an increase in the popularity of checkers in schools across various regions. Educational institutions are integrating the game into their curriculums to foster critical thinking and strategic planning among students. This initiative aims to provide a mental workout and encourage students to engage in an intellectual sport.
#### Innovations in Checkers: New Formats and Online Platforms
Checkers enthusiasts have something to celebrate with the emergence of new game formats and online platforms. These innovations include variations with different board sizes, additional rules to increase complexity, and digital platforms where players can compete globally. Platforms like [**exampleplatform.com**] provide tutorials, live matches, and ranked tournaments, further expanding the game’s reach and popularity.
#### Championships and Events
The annual national checkers championship continues to draw significant participation. The event not only highlights individual skills but also fosters a sense of community among players of all ages. This year’s championship saw an influx of young participants, indicating a growing interest in traditional board games among the younger generation.
For more updates on upcoming checkers events, variations, and online competitions, stay tuned to our site.
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