By Nakasia Logan
FIDE Master Anthony Drayton showcased his exceptional chess skills in the Guyana Chess Federation’s Ready Mix Concrete National Open Qualifier, securing his place in the upcoming national championship.
Drayton finished the tournament with an impressive 6 points out of a possible 7 wins, leading the field of over 40 players.
Close on his heels was Justino Da Silva, who also garnered 6 points but was edged out due to a tiebreaker, placing him second.
Roberto Neto claimed the third spot with 5.5 points, despite missing the first round of the competition.
Other notable performances included Candidate Master Ronuel Greenidge, Keron Sandiford, Sachin Pitamber, and Loris Nathoo, each finishing with 5 points, securing the fourth through seventh places.
Kyle Couchman and Ethan Lee rounded out the top nine with 4.5 points each.
These top nine players have earned the right to challenge the reigning champion, Candidate Master Taffin Khan, who successfully defended his title in 2023 against Loris Nathoo in a three-game playoff series.
The 2024 National Open Chess Championship is set to commence on June 1st.
The qualifier was held at the School of the Nations and overseen by FIDE Arbiters John Lee, Anand Raghunauth, and Irshad Mohamad.
The event was sponsored by Ready Mix Concrete and the School of the Nations.
This qualifying tournament also serves as preparation for players aiming to join the national team for the 45th Chess Olympiad in Hungary later this year.
Players will continue to accumulate points based on their performances in the upcoming Championship and Grand Prix 4.