Port Blair, Aug 11: The Andaman Nicobar Chess Association (ANCA) is gearing up to host the highly anticipated ‘AICF chess for everyone’ 2nd All-India Open FIDE Rated Chess Tournament 2024 from August 14th to 18th at Hotel TSG Grand, Dolly Gunj. A press conference regarding the tournament was held on August 10th at Hotel Shompen, Port Blair where key details of the event were shared with the media.
Around 140 players from across India, representing states such as Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Jharkhand, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, will compete in this prestigious tournament. This diverse and competitive field offers a golden opportunity for unrated players to establish their international FIDE ratings, while rated players have the perfect platform to improve their existing FIDE ratings.
In addition to the competitive excitement, the tournament offers a substantial cash prize of ₹1,15,000/- along with 40 trophies to be awarded across various categories. This makes it one of the most rewarding chess events in the region.
The tournament will be conducted in a classical format with a time control of 90 minutes plus a 30-second increment per move, spanning nine rounds over five days. The opening ceremony will kick off the event on August 14th at 9:00 AM, marking the start of a week filled with intense competition and strategic brilliance.
ANCA representatives emphasized the significance of organizing FIDE-rated tournaments, which provide local players with crucial opportunities to earn or improve their international ratings and gain exposure to higher levels of competition, and strengthen the chess culture in the region. The event also plays a key role in attracting sponsorships and boosting tourism and community engagement.
Special thanks were extended to all sponsors for their invaluable support, which has been instrumental in making this event possible. Their contributions are greatly appreciated and vital to the success of the tournament.
The association invites all chess enthusiasts and supporters to attend the tournament and be part of this exciting event that promises to elevate the status of chess in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.