Jesters, Rooks and Queens Meet Again

The chess rivalry between Collingswood and Pitman manors began in 2008 at Pitman. The courtyard turned into a gigantic chess board with more than three dozen residents, employees and volunteers serving as living, breathing rooks, pawns, bishops, king, queens, and knights.

Promoted as a LifeChoices event, ladies, princes, damsels, jesters, country folk, and other spectators on balconies and sidelines intently watched the chess match unfurl. After Pitman’s 2008 triumph, everyone enthusiastically anticipated a rematch.

On May 13, 2009 a bright and sunny day, that rematch occurred. The Pitman team marched over the red carpet into enemy territory amid the sounds of bellowing bugles; an entrance speech announced their arrival.

During the battle, onlookers and participants realized that Pitman would not able to retain victory over their opponent's resolve. Defeat was prolonged, but inevitable. Although facing distress from their impending loss, spectators tossed water balloons and sprayed water on the Pitman team, which cooled the players off on a warm day and added lightheartedness to the rivalry.

All fought hard with good sportsmanship, but the celebration belonged to Collingswood. Two nine-year-old twins did a great job calling the game.

Oh, and by the way, word of a re-match for the fall is already circulating!