After three intense rounds of the Fiji National Chess Championship, five players remain unbeaten, each achieving an impeccable score of 3/3. Veteran Candidate Master Manoj Kumar currently leads the standings based on tie-breaks, closely followed by Yash Krishen Maharaj, WCM Tanvi Prasad, Rajaritha Weerasekara, and CM Rudr Prasad.
Sponsored by the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC), this championship has attracted some of the country’s most talented and emerging chess players, with nine rounds of competition set to unfold. Kumar, considered one of Fiji’s most experienced players, displayed remarkable skill, securing his third consecutive victory, which provides him with an edge in tie-break scenarios.
WCM Tanvi Prasad is making waves as she leads the female division, showcasing strong results against tough competitors. Kristy Fong, the tournament organizer and General Secretary of the Fiji Chess Federation, expressed her delight at the exceptional level of play observed thus far. “It’s fantastic to witness both new and seasoned players performing so well early in the tournament,” Fong said. “The atmosphere is competitive yet supportive, and with six rounds still ahead, the competition remains wide open.”
The growth of women and youth participation in this year’s championship is especially encouraging, hinting at a promising future for chess in Fiji. As players vie fiercely for the national title, fans can look forward to exciting matches in the coming weeks.
The FWCC Fiji National Chess Championship is set to conclude next Sunday, October 12, at the end of the nine rounds, and the current standings have set the stage for an eagerly awaited battle for the championship title.