Fiji’s young chess players are making a significant impression at the ongoing Oceania Youth Zonal Chess Championship in Brisbane, Australia, showcasing their talent against formidable regional competitors. The national team has achieved several remarkable results across various age categories, demonstrating the increasing depth and confidence in Fiji’s junior chess community.
In the Under-14 Open division, Lionel Vaurasi has emerged as a standout performer, securing a notable victory in Round Two against the higher-rated New Zealand player Joshua Barnes. His strong showing continued with a draw against Australia’s William Searle in Round Three, followed by another win in Round Six over Bryce Chen of Australia.
Similarly, in the Under-14 Girls division, Latileta Masau made headlines with a significant win against higher-rated Australian Emma Ye in Round Two. She added another triumph in Round Six against Tonga’s Hinavakamea Helu, further solidifying her position in the tournament.
Fiji’s representatives in the Under-18 Open division have also delivered commendable performances. Praveer Singh achieved a hard-fought victory against Australia’s Rayen Tiong in Round Four and later shared a draw with his teammate Randev Singh in Round Six, demonstrating resilience in a highly competitive environment.
The senior youth players from Fiji have not fallen behind either. In the Under-20 Girls division, Woman Candidate Master Tanvi Prasad rebounded from earlier draws in Rounds Three and Five to clinch a win against the higher-rated Australian Angela He in Round Six. Meanwhile, in the Under-20 Open division, Candidate Master Rudr Prasad concluded Round Six with a decisive victory over Nauru’s Wiseman Daumana.
Team Manager Kristy Fong commended the championship as a valuable platform for growth and development, lauding the players’ dedication and progress throughout the tournament. With the event concluding tomorrow, Fiji’s chess representation is showing a promising future in the sport.