The VII South American Chess Championship for Under-7 through Under-17 categories kicked off in Bogota today. Nine rounds of Swiss-system play at 90 minutes plus 30 seconds per move will determine the continental youth champions across multiple age groups. Colombia hosts the competition, drawing top junior talent from across South America. Round 1 wrapped with no upsets derailing the favorites, though several matches went deep into the middlegame. The remaining eight rounds unfold over the coming days, with each category fielding serious contenders hungry for the title.