Youth taking over

Top-level youth Scrabble is on the rise. The 5th World Youth Scrabble Championship, to be held in Manila in early December, has attracted 90 entrants, up from 80 last year. Two new countries are represented: South Africa and Pakistan. And organiser Karen Richards is hopeful of getting first-time entries from China and Hong Kong. Prize-money is $US1500 for first place and going down to 10th place, as well as a number of special prizes. You can follow the event at www.youthscrabble.org/2010.html. And view a profile of last year's runner-up, Alastair Richards (Aust).