The late Sean (John) Bradley - Chess player supreme
The late John Bradley, the city’s best known and celebrated historian and archaeologist was not only an expert on his beloved city but also represented it on chess boards throughout the country.
The late John Bradley, the city’s best known and celebrated historian and archaeologist was not only an expert on his beloved city but also represented it on chess boards throughout the country.
He achieved a draw, with arguably, the greatest chess player on the planet, Boris Spassky.
He was a chess player of considerable strength. Sean as he was known in Irish Chess circles, was a valued member of Kilkenny Chess Club and a competitive player on the first team for 40 years.
His support in bringing Boris Spassky, world champion 1969 to 1972 to the city in 1991 was considerable.
He achieved a draw with the legendary grandmaster at a simul in the Club House Hotel, Patrick Street in ‘91nand they found common interest in Russian, Irish and chess history.
A member of the only provincial team ever to win the national Armstrong Cup (division 1), an achievement which he cherished.
He was generous with his time, helping students to maximise their talents.
Sean enjoyed classical music, fine food and lively, interesting debate. He was entertaining company, a fonr of knowledge and wide range of subjects and blessed with a sharp wit.