Team Herald
sports@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: The 24th edition of the World International Physically Disabled Chess Association Individual Chess Championship commenced at the International Centre Goa, Dona Paula, on Tuesday.
The first round witnessed smooth victories by top-seeded players, setting a confident tone for the rest of the tournament. Leading the pack is IM Molenda Marcin from Poland, followed closely by IM Gurbanov Andrei from Israel, who also serves as the President of IPCA.
Top seed IM Molenda Marcin along with IM Andrei Gurbanov, FM Sargissyan Sargus, FM Soltanov Sorik, IM Obodchuk Andrei, FM Lipillin Llia, Giazan Domagoz, FM Valenta Vit Vaclav, Gedgafor Chamal, WIM Leszner Liliana, Ayapov Alimzhan , IM Campos Eugenio and Takharova Evgeniya were some of the notable winners.
On Wednesday, two rounds will be played as the battle of the titans of chess players with disabilities enters an interesting phase.
The opening day not only showcased the extraordinary talent and determination of the participating players but also underscored the power of sports in fostering inclusion, dignity, and global unity.
As the rounds progress over the coming days, spectators can expect high-calibre performances, strategic brilliance, and inspiring displays of resilience and sportsmanship.
This international event jointly organised by the Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, State Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Goa Chess Association for Persons with Disabilities and Chess Federation for Physically Disabled under the national aegis of All India Chess Federation has brought together 97 participants representing 18 federations across the globe, making it one of the most inclusive and diverse championships to date. The championship also enjoys the valuable support of FIDE, the Asian Chess Federation, and the Sports Authority of India.
Participating federations include Angola, Armenia, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, FIDE, France, India, Israel, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Nepal, Philippines, Poland, Slovakia, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.