Commonwealth Chess tourney begins at Waskaduwa

The Commonwealth Chess Championships commenced in Sri Lanka yesterday and will continue until November 22 at the Citrus Hotel, Waskaduwa. The Chess Federation of Sri Lanka is organizing the event On behalf of the Commonwealth Chess Association.

The president of Chess Federation of Sri Lanka, Luxman Wijesuriya said that it is an honour for us to host such a great event in Sri Lanka and the CFSL is offering cash awards of Rs. 5.5 million (equal to USD 15,000) for the winners.

A total of 275 players have registered for the event from eight countries, India, Maldives, South Africa England, Australia, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka to participate in the event. 13 Grand Masters, two Women Grand Masters, six International Masters and three WIMs have already confirmed their participation.

The event consists of the open event and 12 age category youth chess events for under 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 and 18 years Girls and Boys. Special awards will be given to under 12 years Boys and Girls and over 60 years categories.

The Sri Lankan contingent will be led by International Master Susal De Silva of Nalanda College who is our National Chess Champion. Asian Under 10 Girls Champion, Oshini Devindya Gunawardena will also compete.

Sri Lankas main contingents for the Commonwealth Chess Championships

Susal de Silva and Sachini Ranasinghe (Open event),T.D.R Pieris, Ranindu Liyanage, Nevensa Esandi (Dharmasoka, Ambalangoda (Junior event).