AFTER an incredible three-way tie-break Harry Vernon clinched victory at the inaugural Ryde Rapid Chess Tournament.

The competition, held recently at Yelf's Hotel, Ryde, marked the Isle of Wight's first rapid chess tournament, which attracted 24 challengers.

There were fast-paced matches throughout the day, with more than 60 chess games played, alongside numerous sideline games.

Isle of Wight County Press: Harry Vernon, left, beat Clive Bowley in the deciding match of the inaugural Ryde Rapid Chess Tournament.Harry Vernon, left, beat Clive Bowley in the deciding match of the inaugural Ryde Rapid Chess Tournament. (Image: David Lightfoot)

The final match was a thriller between Vernon and Clive Bowley, who remained undefeated going into the game.

Ultimately, Vernon came out on top, with Bowley losing on time.

Tournament director, David Lightfoot, said: "It was great to see so many new players competing — Island regulars and a few others making the trip over for the day."

To show how chess was a game loved by people across the generations, the tournament attracted players aged from 13 years to into their late 80s.

"A special shout out to Grace and Alex, two junior players who held their own and both had great results," said Lightfoot. 

Terry Dawson was the tournament arbiter.

The success of the tournament promises more invigorating chess contests in the future, including Classical and Blitz formats, as part of an initiative by Isle of Wight Chess to run several regular events promoting the game among all age groups.

The goal is to host a sizeable chess congress in February next year, aimed at attracting hundreds of chess enthusiasts from the mainland.