In August 2025, BCA members Gary Hogan and Brandan Read travelled to Rzeszow, Poland, with their coach, IM Chris Baker, to take part in the Classic IBCA World Individual Chess Championship for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

This was Gary’s third IBCA event and he achieved a 50% score over nine rounds, which saw him finish 11 places above his seeding.

Brandan was taking part in his first ever IBCA tournament and he achieved two wins from eight games. He now has his first FIDE rating.

We’re very proud of them both, and grateful to Chris for doing such a great job of the coaching!