The much-anticipated 2024 edition of the Battle of Veterans has concluded with remarkable victories by Dr. Rufus Ugorji, Stanley Egbujie, and Abiye Ideriah, solidifying their positions as leading figures in the veteran chess community in Port Harcourt. The event, held on November 15th and 16th, 2024, at the prestigious Port Harcourt Club 1928 Chess Section, continues to evolve into a platform that celebrates and promotes inclusivity for veteran players.
This year’s tournament saw 14 players register, with 7 active participants competing in two categories: the 50+ category and the 60+ category. The division of categories guaranteed a level playing field, promoting competitive yet friendly matches among seasoned players.
Highlights of the 60+ Category
In the 60+ category, Dr. Rufus Ugorji displayed his dominance and experience, securing the 1st prize with a flawless performance. Dr. Ugorji achieved a perfect score of 4/4, expertly navigating both white and black pieces to outmaneuver his opponents, including Coach Benibo Amieyeofori and Boroadudua Ngiangia. His ability to deliver such precise and calculated games affirmed the depth of his chess acumen, making him a standout performer in the tournament.
Thrills in the 50+ Category
The 50+ category brought an intense battle for the top spot, culminating in a tie for first place between Stanley Egbujie and Bar. Abiye Ideriah, who both scored 3 points out of 4. Their performances brought out not only their individual skills but also the competitiveness of this category, as every match brought out the best in the players.
A Vision for the Future
The event organizer, Dr. Apollos Akomaka, expressed immense satisfaction with the growing stature of the tournament. He noted that the Battle of Veterans has now become a permanent fixture on the Nigerian Chess calendar, attracting attention and participation from veterans nationwide. Dr. Akomaka emphasized the tournament’s significance in rekindling the love of chess among retired players, stating that it provides a unique opportunity to reconnect with a game they cherished in their younger days.
In his remarks, Dr. Akomaka extended an open invitation to organizations and corporate bodies, encouraging them to sponsor and support this annual event. He emphasized the potential for such partnerships to not only improve the event’s scope but also support a general revival of chess culture among retired professionals and veteran players.
