International Chess Day

CHESS players from around the world came together to celebrate International Chess Day on July 20.

The sport — which was established by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) on July 20, 1924 — marked 100 years of existence and has now reached 193 countries.

Fiji Chess general secretary Goru Arvind said our continuing partnership with Vodafone Fiji and FIDE was setting up a strong platform for the next generation of chess players in Fiji.

“Chess is being recognised for its beneƝts in schools, with countries like Armenia, India, China, and Germany incorporating it into their curriculum to enhance students’ analytical thinking and patience,” said Goru.

“In Fiji, chess has even been used to help children with high anxiety disorders learn how to focus and sit still.”

The Fiji Chess Federation, established in 1979, has produced international titles such as Women’s FIDE Master and Candidate Master.

Officials in Fiji hold titles such as FIDE Arbiter and FIDE Instructor, showcasing the country’s commitment to organising and coaching chess.

Fiji achieved its highest accolades at the 2022 Olympiad, winning two titles in a single World Chess Championship.

The upcoming 45th World Chess Olympiad in Budapest will feature talented players such as Makayla Sukhu and Yash Krishen Maharaj representing Fiji.

Meanwhile, the next Vodafone Fiji Rapid Chess Championship is scheduled to be held at the University of the South PaciƝc campus at Laucala Bay on Saturday, with prizes set for open, women, under-20 and under-14 divisions.