by Travis Seymour
Over the weekend, the School of the Nations auditorium buzzed with excitement as the Ready-Mix Open Qualification Chess Tournament commenced.
Organized by the Guyana Chess Federation, this tournament serves as a crucial stepping stone for players aiming to compete in the National Championship.
With more than 40 participants locked in fierce competition, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation and determination.
The primary objective of the tournament is to identify nine exceptional players who will earn the opportunity to challenge the reigning national champion, Taffin Khan.
After seven rounds of intense gameplay, the top performers will emerge, securing their spots in the prestigious national championship.
Early on in the tournament, eight players showcased their skill and determination by securing two wins each.
Among them were seasoned players like Fide Master Anthony Drayton, Loris Nathoo, Sachin Pitamber, Aditi Joshi, Rolex Alexander, Kyle Couchman, Ethan Lee, and Keron Sandiford.
Their impressive victories set the stage for an exciting and competitive tournament ahead.
Notable victories included Drayton’s triumph over opponents Ciel Desiree and Ricardo Narine, while Couchman demonstrated his prowess by defeating Gilbert Williams and Angelica Assing.
Other standout performances came from Nathoo, Lee, Sandiford, and Joshi, who showcased their strategic prowess and tactical brilliance on the chessboard.
Looking ahead, the tournament promises to deliver thrilling matchups as players continue to vie for supremacy and the chance to challenge Khan for the national title.
Round three and four are scheduled for Saturday, May 18th, followed by rounds five and six on Sunday, May 19th.
The climax of the tournament will come on Sunday, May 26th, with the final round at the School of the Nations auditorium.
As the competition intensifies, chess enthusiasts eagerly anticipate witnessing the emergence of new talent and the battle for chess supremacy in Guyana.
Stay tuned to our website for live updates and highlights from the Ready-Mix Open Qualification Chess Tournament as the action unfolds.