CENTURY 21 Grand Prix chess tournament kicks off GCF 2024 programme

Several female players are contesting the tournament

Competing in the Women’s category are 2023 National Women’s Champion Jessica Callender, Sasha Shariff, Shazeeda Rahim and youngsters Aditi Joshi and Ciel Clement, to name a few.

“Proving that there are no limits to game performance based on age, this tournament promises excitement and will prove that chess is a battle of wits and strategy. The total prize fund is G$70,000. Prizes for first to third places in either category are G$20,000, G$10,000 and G$5,000 respectively,” a release from the GCF outlined.

“The tournament will be played by FIDE (International Chess Federation) rules. Players will see their ratings dip or move upwards based on their performance. The Chief Arbiter for the tournament is FIDE Arbiter John Lee, assisted by FIDE Arbiter Anand Raghunauth and National Arbiter Odit Rodrigues.”

The CENTURY 21 Chess Grand Prix One is the first of four similar tournaments billed for 2024.

“Each Grand Prix tournament gives players a chance to earn Grand Prix points, which will be tabulated in conjunction with their scores earned from the 2023 and 2024 National Open Championships and 2024 National Women’s Championship tourneys,” the GCF release added.

“These top scores will ultimately determine the team for the 45^th Chess Olympiad in 2024. Players who also compete regularly can improve their internationally recognised FIDE ratings.”

Ciel Clement (backing camera) playing against Sasha Shariff

Grand Prix One and Grand Prix Two will be a rigorous testing experience for top male and female chess players to be eligible for selection in the upcoming inaugural CARICOM tournament in March 2024.

The top eight players will have the opportunity to represent the country at this prestigious event.

Updates on each round of the Grand Prix One games, and player results can be viewed on the GCF website: www.guyanachess.gy

“The GCF extends its gratitude to the CENTURY 21 Real Estate Company for its collaboration and sustained partnership in the further growth of chess locally. The Federation also would like to thank the National Sports Commission for the use of the Racquet Centre,” the GCF release concluded.