MUSCAT: In a thrilling display of chess competition, Nabon Emerson from the Philippines, clinched the first position in the second preparatory championship organised by the Oman Chess Committee. Amil Aspeshn of India secured second place.
The event took place from October 20 to 22 at Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex as part of preparations to host the upcoming World Amateur Chess Championship scheduled for November.
With 103 domestic and international players from various countries residing in Oman, the tournament provided an electrifying contest. Competitors played under the classical chess format, engaging in seven rounds with each player allotted 60 minutes on the clock, along with
an additional 10 seconds per move.
Post-competition, International Judge Khalid bin Nasser al Haddidi ceremoniously honoured the triumphant players. Emerson claimed first place with 6.5 points, while India's Amil secured second spot with an equally impressive 6.5 points. India's Dak Shika claimed third while compatriot Surya Dhanesh took fourth spot (5.5 points). Another Indian player Ashubh Damore (5.5 points) was fifth while Oman national team player Khalfan al Hasni achieved the sixth position with 5.5 points, closely followed by his teammate Ali al Maamari, who claimed the seventh spot with the same score.
India's Shabi Bateng landed in eighth position with five points, while Oman's Anas al Yahmadi was ninth with 5 points. Egypt's Madhat Magdy finished tenth, also with 5 points.
This championship provides a significant platform for Oman national players to enhance their skills, apply their training under the expert guidance of the technical staff, and engage in fair and competitive play. These experiences contribute to the elevation of the technical
proficiency of national players and augment their international rankings.
The event has been a crucial stepping stone in preparing these talented chess players to represent the Sultanate of Oman in the World Amateur Chess Championship, scheduled to take place in Oman in early November. The Chess Committee is dedicated to involving a broader array of Omani players with the objective of equipping them to attain superior international rankings and championships.
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