Johnny

Meet Johnny O'Leary. If you find yourself strolling through Washington Square Park, perhaps you'll bump into Johnny. You can most often find him at the Washington Square West chess tables looking for someone to challenge him. Back in the 80s, while on his lunch break, he decided to walk through the park. After seeing some older men playing the game, he became curious and wanted to learn. Johnny took a seat and began his chess journey. From that moment on, Johnny was hooked. Over many years he became pretty good at the game, but one thing he learned that most don't know, he realized, "you can't keep nuthin you have, unless you give it away." He loved the challenge of the game but most importantly he loved engaging with the public. He thought this was the way to do it. Teach others and meet new people.