Richard Thorne Chess Scholarship
Richard Thorne’s association with Prince Alfred College, as a parent, chess coach and grandparent, spanned over 40 years. His contribution to the life of the College, and to the old scholar community, during this time, particularly through his involvement in the PAC chess program, was considerable.
In his later years, Richard and his wife, Jenny, established a number of chess and music scholarships – a legacy that will continue in perpetuity, creating opportunities for exceptional boys to attend Prince Alfred College. A current recipient of the Richard Thorne Scholarship is Ethan Retnaraja (Year 10 in 2022).
“My name is Ethan Retnaraja. I have been a recipient of the Richard Thorne Scholarship since joining Prince Alfred College in 2020. [Mr Thorne’s] generosity meant more than chess; it opened doors to many incredible opportunities. I can learn in a friendly, all-inclusive, and nurturing environment in which we boys are encouraged to thrive. I feel empowered to pursue academic excellence in a pleasant, inductive learning environment, while the College’s Pastoral Care program teaches and encourages me to be a person of values and virtues. The strong sense of brotherhood and camaraderie amongst the chess players at school inspires me to do my best in chess, and beyond.
The chess scholarship has also allowed my parents to afford to take me to travel interstate and internationally for chess tournaments, which enrich me with experience and exposure to top level chess. Recently, I played in the Oceania Zonal Chess Championships and obtained my first chess title, Candidate
Master (Provisional). I am motivated to further my chess while achieving my academic goals. I remain grateful for Mr. Thorne and his scholarship. I aspire to be a proud Princes Man and lead our chess team to a national title.”
Richard sadly passed away in November 2022, but his memory will live on among those who knew him. Richard’s significant contribution to the Prince Alfred College community is recognised through his induction into the Princes’ Men Gallery, and he remains one of only two members of the Gallery who were not old scholars.
If you would like to help create educational opportunities for students like Ethan, please consider a tax-deductible gift to the Prince Alfred College Foundation Scholarship Fund. 100% of your donation will be directed into the Scholarship Endowment Fund, ensuring these opportunities can be provided to many students in the years to come.