Top local seed candidate master (CM) Calvin Prasad is in top form at the 2nd Fijian International Open Chess tournament which is underway at the Raddison Blu Resort on Denarau Island.

Prasad was in third spot after round three and was in devastating form dispatching his two Australian opponents John Caldeira and Tianata Terubea in twenty moves in earlier rounds.

He also overcame Alana Chibnall with a strong opening which his opponent could not counter.

Impressive results for the locals who are in contention for the top prizes including Zen Borg who also managed to win his game in an exciting finish over his New Zealand opponent Nadia Braganza.

Borg said that despite being ranked lower than his opponent, he played a strong game but was better prepared to counter the moves in their contest.

“She played quite offensively and I was able to counter her tactics and eventually win the match,” said Borg.

Deputy arbiter Gaurav Raicar said other locals including CM Goru Arvind, John Caldeira and Women’s FIDE Master (WFM) Hilda Vukikomoala were unfortunate in losing their encounters despite playing well.

He said the festival got off to a great start on Sunday with players from Fiji, Australia and New Zealand participating in the inaugural week-long chess bonanza.

“We are looking forward to some exciting chess being played and it is greatly encouraging to see the upcoming talent in Fiji chess take advantage of the school holidays to participate,” said chief arbiter IA Dr Jashint Maharaj.

“The atmosphere in the room is intense as the young kids look to challenge and upset the overseas visitors,” he added.

He said the tournament also serves as the 2016 Oceania Seniors Chess Championship and inaugural Oceania Juniors Chess Championship.

The event is organised by FIDE, Fiji National Sports Commission, Fiji Chess Federation, KASPAROV and FMF.

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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