Community rallies behind scrabble whiz-kid

Forty people participated in a Scrabble tournament to help raise funds for Jason Tang, 12, who is flying to Dubai to compete in the world Scrabble youth championship.

A scrabble tournament is being held to raise money for Jason Tang, a 12-year old who will be flying to Dubai to compete in the world scrabble youth championship. (IMAGE / Carmela Roche).

Forty people participated in a Scrabble tournament to help raise funds for Jason Tang, 12, who is flying to Dubai to compete in the world Scrabble youth championship.

The tournament, held in the library of Cabramatta Public School last Saturday, saw competitors square off in seven games each across three divisions throughout the day.

A total of $1022 was raised to help Cabramatta-based Jason cover the cost of flights and accommodation to Dubai, where he will be representing Australia later this year.

Jason finished second in his division with 57 rating points, making him the highest finishing junior in attendance.

Jason Tang with his father Song Tuon (left) and mentor Tony Hunt (right) on the day of the scrabble tournament. (IMAGE / Carmela Roche).

Tony Hunt, who helped spark Jason’s interest in the game four years ago by starting a club at Cabramatta Public, organised the event as a way to help support the promising player.

A tournament competitor of 20 years himself, Mr Hunt commended the character and skill of the people who competed.

“I was impressed with the courteous and serious attitude of the young players,” he said.

“They are obviously putting effort into learning words and strategies to improve their game.”