The USVI Chess Federation hosted the Virgin Islands Open Chess Tournament on April 1 and April 2 at Alfredo Andrews School in conjunction with Education Connections VI on St. Croix. This tournament was open to everyone.
This Swiss System five-round tournament had chess players ranging in age from 15 – 72 years old. Three players from St. Thomas traveled to St. Croix to compete. There were high school students, seasoned chess players, and five players who were competing in their first tournament.
Several competitors commented that tournament play is much more focused than casual club play. There were also guests, spouses and parents of some of the players present. Homemade carrot muffins were generously provided by Lona Smith.
There were three rounds on Saturday and two on Sunday. This exciting tournament saw some intense, nail-biting end games. Mighty Funtanilla from St. Croix won the tournament with a perfect score of 5 points; 2nd and 3rd place was decided by tie-breaks. Francis Jackson, 2nd place, and Robert Collins, 3rd place. both from St. Thomas, each scored 3 ½ points.
The Chess Federation thanks all the players, guests, Alfredo Andrews Elementary School, Marisa Allen of Education Connections VI, and the Virgin Islands Olympic Committee whose support and interest made this event possible.
USVI Chess Federation President Margaret Murphy was the International FIDE Organizer of this two-day event. Treasurer Anthony Mongiello was the FIDE arbiter. Both are licensed by FIDE, the World Chess Federation.
The U.S. Virgin Islands Chess Federation looks forward to more tournaments and chess events in 2023 and beyond. Its next tournament is the St. Croix Open Scholastic Chess Tournament scheduled for Saturday, April 22, at the Ricardo Richards Elementary School.
Please email usvichess@gmail.com for details.
