THE Isle of Wight's first major chess event, the Wightlink Isle of Wight Chess Congress, was a sell-out — attracting 72 players and described by organisers as a resounding success.
SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE PHOTOS
The recent three-day event, hosted by Ryde Castle Hotel, included 41 mainland players — demonstrating the potential to host larger events, with plans underway for a tournament next year, accommodating as many as 300 players and a nine-round open section.
The weekend featured lively competitions, which included ten 'titled' competitors, a chess grandmaster and two British champions.
International master, Harry Grieve, emerged victorious — drawing in the final round against grandmaster, Keith Arkell, to finish with with 4.5 points from a possible five.
Arkell, who finished second overall, also triumphed in the Blitz round on the Saturday evening.
Chichester player, Vinuda Gunatilake, clinched the U16 award, sponsored by the Isle of Wight College.
Despite a strong performance by 13-year-old Jan Murawski, Grieve and women’s international master, Natasha Regan, managed to edge him out in tense games.
However, Murawski clinched second place in the Saturday night Blitz.
Natasha's win earned her the Best Women’s Player accolade, with hopes of more female participation in the years to come.
Stand out local players included FIDE master, Neil Dickenson, who scored an impressive 3.5 out of 5 after returning to tournament chess following a decade's hiatus.
All the games in the open category were live-streamed, courtesy of equipment sponsor Digital Game Technology, and can be accessed via iowchess.com.
Local player, Clive Bowley, not only secured the Championship section, but also the Best Isle of Wight players' prize.
Other prizes went to Michael Gidley for the best Island over-65 player, and Gregory Kornilovich, a visiting junior, for winning the U1400-rated Challenger section.
Tournament director, David Lightfoot, said: "The feedback has been great from players.
"With the support of Wightlink, we were able to plan a top-level congress at short notice, so we cannot thank them enough.
"Digital Game Technology allowed the event to be broadcast live and give players a professional experience.
"The Isle of Wight College supported U16 prizes in each section, which was a huge draw for juniors.
"I could not be more proud of Isle of Wight Chess.
"With the support of local players, we were able to deliver a top-tier event — and we can’t wait to expand this next year."
House Rules
We do not moderate comments, but we expect readers to adhere to certain rules in the interests of open and accountable debate.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel