WASHINGTON, D.C. – A Logan Elementary student has been recognized for his chess championship before the House of Representatives in Washington DC.

U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall (D-W.Va.) Wednesday expressed his recognition for nine-year-old Advait “Adi” Patel, one of the nation’s newest National Elementary Chess Champions.

“With our national focus on today’s student science and math accomplishments translating into tomorrow’s innovations and entrepreneurs, Adi’s example sets exactly the right tone for his fellow students, teachers and school administrators alike,” said Rahall in a statement for his colleagues in the House of Representatives. “In Adi’s case, beyond the thrill of victory and the satisfaction of success, we can find useful lessons for both today’s and tomorrow’s leaders.”

The full text of Rep. Rahall’s statement reads”

“Extension of Remarks

“U.S. Representative Nick J. Rahall, II (D-WV)

“Advait “Adi” Patel

“May 30, 2012

“Mr. Speaker,

“I am proud to honor one of America’s newest National Elementary Chess Champions, nine-year-old Advait “Adi” Patel, who hails from Logan County, West Virginia. This Logan Middle School fifth grader placed first in the recent competition that drew 2,200 young people to test their skills, stamina and heart. We salute all those who helped organize the competition and who nurture our country’s future generations. In Adi’s case, beyond the thrill of victory and the satisfaction of success, we can find useful lessons for both today’s and tomorrow’s leaders.

“Competing with the latest video games and their striking graphics has not been the easiest time for the venerable game of chess, but one thing that can usually trump the newest technology is old fashioned love; especially the love of a grandfather in India, who took the time and patience to teach Adi how to play the game during a visit.

“Adi’s parents have been very supportive as well, taking him to faraway tournaments and providing him lessons and online access to other players. Importantly, they are behind his pursuit as long as he still loves the game, another feather in their parental caps.

“Likewise, Adi is as thoughtful off the board as he is during a tough game. He recently commented in a local news story that, “It’s fun to play, and there’s no brawl in it – no fighting physically,” Advait said. “It helps me with school, too. Math is a lot easier now. I’ve had straight A’s ever since I started playing, because it teaches you how to focus. There is a lot of thinking in chess.”

“With our national focus on today’s student science and math accomplishments translating into tomorrow’s innovations and entrepreneurs, Adi’s example sets exactly the right tone for his fellow students, teachers and school administrators alike.

“Adi’s chess coach, David Saville, believes a chess player’s best skill is to be able to “visualize the future.” I think we can all visualize a brighter future with the talent, values, hard work and dedication displayed by Adi, his coach and family.”