FM Denyefa Callistus Eyetonghan, Erhurhu Akpovire John, and Onoja Joy Iyefu Shine at the 1st RA Club National Chess Tournament 2024 Rapid, Bonny Island, Rivers State.
The 1st RA Club National Chess Tournament 2024 Rapid was held over two competitive days at Bonny Island, Rivers State, bringing together top-tier players from across Nigeria. The event had a fierce display of intellect, strategy, and determination across nine grueling rounds, cementing its place as a premier event on the Nigerian chess calendar.
FM Denyefa Callistus Eyetonghan delivered an outstanding performance to emerge as the overall champion of the tournament. Playing with consistency and precision, Denyefa finished unbeaten with an impressive 8 points out of 9, demonstrating his mastery of rapid chess. His dominance in the tournament reflected his ability to remain composed and resilient against strong opposition, setting a high standard for future tournaments.
The race for second and third positions was equally intense, as 13-year-old rising star Goodness Ekunke and the experienced FM Bomo Kigigha shared the podium. Both players finished with 7 points out of 9, displaying a remarkable blend of youthful talent and seasoned expertise. Goodness Ekunke’s stellar performance, particularly at such a young age, has undoubtedly made him one to watch in the Nigerian chess scene.
In addition to the overall standings, Erhurhu Akpovire John distinguished himself by winning the prize for the Best Bonny Island Resident. Akpovire finished with a commendable 6 points out of 9, overcoming strong competition and securing crucial victories against notable opponents, including Koko Obele and Emmanuel Nwala. His triumph reflects not only his skill but also the strength of the local chess community on Bonny Island.
The spotlight also shone brightly on the women’s category, where Onoja Joy Iyefu emerged victorious, claiming the title of Best Female Player. With a solid score of 5 points out of 9, Onoja’s performance was evident in her skill, dedication, and ability to compete at the highest level. Her achievement adds to the growing momentum of women in Nigerian chess, inspiring more female players to participate and excel.
The success of the tournament was made possible through the meticulous organization and coordination of the RA Club Chess Club, led by Tournament Director NM Sunny Eyenghe. In his closing remarks, NM Eyenghe expressed his heartfelt appreciation to all club members and participants for their support and contributions. He praised the tournament for its competitive spirit and camaraderie, calling it a “beautiful event that has set a benchmark for future editions.”
The 1st RA Club National Chess Tournament 2024 Rapid not only celebrated the brilliance of its top players but also reinforced the growing popularity and impact of chess in Nigeria. With such talented individuals and promising young players emerging, the future of Nigerian chess looks brighter than ever.
