The 2014 Mind Sports Olympiad began on Sunday August 17th with an attendance of over 120 competitors in a morning session that included Chess 960, Scrabble, Backgammon, Stratego and Settlers of Catan. 

38 players competed in the Settlers of Catan tournament, which was won by former Pentamind World Champion Demis Hassabis.

On the closest gameboard on bottom left starting from left to right: Demis Hassabis (gold), Martin Hobemagi (junior gold), James Heppell (silver)

On the closest gameboard on bottom left starting from left to right: Demis Hassabis (gold), Martin Hobemagi (junior gold), James Heppell (silver)

Demis’ 5 year old son, Arthur, won the silver junior medal followed by his 7 year old brother, Alex, winning the bronze Junior medal.

Arthur Hassabis (age 5) wins the Silver Junior Medal in Settlers of Catan

The Heppell family was also well represented with James Heppell winning Silver followed by his mom Madeline winning Bronze.
Madeline Heppel won the Bronze Medal in Settlers of Catan

Madeline Heppel won the Bronze Medal in Settlers of Catan

The evening session featured Blitz Chess, 7 Card Stud, Kaluki and Diplomacy. There’s lots more planned for this week. Come along (it’s free for spectators) and join the fun!