In a thrilling showcase of youthful chess brilliance, over 120 juniors aged 5 to 15 gathered at Lagos Theatre Igando on December 16, for the 2023 Midechess Vacation Tourney, Completesports.com reports.
Organised by rising Chess coach, Mr. Olumide Akindayini, famed for nurturing and leading Platform Schools Lagos to the 2023 World Chess Championships for schools in Aktau, Republic of Kazakhstan, the Midechess Vacation Tourney 2023 not only crowned winners but also equipped all participants with certificates of participation and valuable chess skills.
(L to R): Midechess Vacation Tourney 2023 U-15 Champion, Emillola Adekunle; tournament organiser/FIDE-licenced coach, Mr Olumide Akindayini; U-10 champion, Floresaint Patrick and Mr Patrick.
The purpose of fostering a love for chess among juniors, particularly in Alimosho – the biggest local government council in Lagos State but hitherto lacking a chess tourney for juniors, took centre stage. Mr. Oyeleye Olawale, the chief arbiter, skillfully ensured fair play, elevating the tournament’s standards.
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The tournament was keenly witnessed by Parents, chess fans, and Mr. Oluyisola Abiola, the Director of Substance Global Educational Services, who plays a crucial role in fostering the growth of chess in schools across Nigeria.
Patrick Floresaint and defending champion Emillola Adekunle claimed the spotlight, each earning a star prize of N30,000 (thirty thousand naira) in the Under 10 and Under 15 categories respectively. Edward Peculiar retained the Best Female title in the Under 10 category, while Wilson Princess secured the title in the Under 15 category.
Remarkable performances by Kelvin Agusionu, Victor Omojoolabi, Jonathan Turner, and others showcased the fierce competition, making the Midechess Vacation Tourney 2023 a resounding success.
Midechess Vacation Tourney first-timers, Iheanyichukwu Michael and Adeyemi Adesire Moses left an indelible mark with outstanding performances, adding an element of surprise to the tournament.
Mr Oluyisola Abiola with winners in the under-10 category
Mrs Adepoju and the winners from Lagos Theatre Creative Chess club
The journey towards chess excellence continues, setting the stage for an even grander event next year. The hope for future sponsorships was expressed by Mr. Olumide Akindayini, emphasising the tournament’s potential growth.
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“The Midechess Vacation Tourney 2023 was significantly more organised, thanks to Mr. Dashe and Platform Schools. Chess clocks, chess boards, and printed pairings for each round were readily available,” Akindayini, an International Chess Federation (FIDE) certified School Instructor, told Completesports.com.
“Despite some late registrations occurring just two days before the deadline, I was quite satisfied with how the event unfolded.
“Looking ahead, we plan to host two chess championships next year: one during the long holiday in August and the annual December tourney. We urge well-meaning corporate organisations and individuals to come on board and support us.”
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