In a thrilling display of intellect and strategy, the Chess Heights August 2024 tournaments in Plateau and Benue States captivated chess enthusiasts, as top players battled for supremacy in fiercely competitive matches that showcased the rising talent and passion for chess in the region.
In a thrilling showcase of skill and strategy, Chess Heights Plateau State successfully concluded its August 2024 tournament on Saturday, August 6th.
The event, held at the picturesque Elims Bubbles Off Golf Course in Mai-Adiko, Rayfield Jos, drew some of the most talented chess players from across the region, competing fiercely across multiple categories.
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Chess Heights Plateau State Highlights
Open Category:
The competition in the open category was intense, with Ezeadireje Kingsley emerging as the champion. Kingsley, alongside Joseph Gyang Weng and Yakubu Arenye, each secured 5 points, but Kingsley’s superior FIDE rating gave him the edge to claim victory.
Female Category:
The female category saw a battle of wits between Ishaya Kira Rejoice and Naomi Musa, both finishing with 3.5 points. Rejoice’s higher FIDE rating ultimately earned her the first place, with Anthony Favour close behind with 3 points.
Under-14 Category:
In the under-14 category, David Peter clinched first place with 4.5 points, narrowly beating Dagyeng Pannan, who finished with 4 points. Third place was shared between Udoh Joethan and Elvis Manasa, each securing 2 points.
Under-10 Category:
The youngest chess enthusiasts also showcased their talents, with Afolabi David and Afolabi Daniel tying for first place with 3 points each. Sherdung Ritkhinen and Ihimoyan Daniel shared the third spot, both scoring 2.5 points.
The event was a celebration of chess as a unifying and intellectual pursuit, drawing extensive media coverage and further establishing Plateau State as a hub for chess talent. With refreshments provided for participants and spectators, the tournament was both a competitive and enjoyable experience for all involved.
Chess Heights Benue State Highlights
Meanwhile, in Makurdi, Benue State, the Chess Heights Benue Monthly tournament saw defending champion Matthew Otache successfully retain his title.
The event, which attracted a strong field of players from across the state, witnessed intense battles of wits among participants.
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The tournament featured a star-studded lineup, including Abyem Afa, Otache Matthew, and Egwumah James, who represented Team Jigawa at the last National Sports Festival in Delta State. Also in attendance was Khalid Ahmed, a member of the Kaduna State chess team.
The competition was further spiced up by the participation of Obekpa Charles, a FIDE-rated player with a rating above 2000.
Played in the FIDE rapid format with a time control of 20 minutes plus 2 seconds per move, the tournament provided an exciting platform for players to showcase their skills.
After several rounds of keenly contested matches, Otache emerged victorious, retaining his title. Abyem Afa secured the second position, while Khalid Ahmed claimed the third spot.
The Chess Heights Benue Monthly tournament continues to be a platform for identifying and nurturing chess talents in the state. As the competition grows in stature, it is expected to attract even more top players in subsequent editions.
