THE 42nd Chess Olympiad was held in the Baku, Azerbaijan from the 1st -14th September 2016. The Guyana Chess Federation (GCF), in keeping with the aspirations of bringing chess back to life in our country, sent a delegation of 12 persons to this event.The newly crowned WFM Maria Varona-Thomas considered this Olympiad a phenomenal one. Although this was her second Olympiad, it was her first time playing in the women’s division. Thomas ‘felt at home’ playing in this section, and is still thrilled about her achievements.

For Sheriffa Ali,the 42nd Chess Olympiad was definitely an unforgettable experience. She talked about the kindness and warmth of the people,and meeting chess players from all around the world. “I was honoured to play in the tournament representing my country. The best part of it was returning home with my new title Woman Candidate Master (WCM).”

The Clementson sisters spoke extensively about their amazing experience at the Chess Olympiad;one that was filled with the awe of Baku’s breathtaking aesthetic, the camaraderie shared between teammates,and even the competence of team management.
Although there were some disappointments, the efforts put in place by the Baku officials and the warmth offered by other teams provided great consolation. To Jessica and Julia, this Olympiad was their first in many respects;including their first big international tournament,and being a part of the first female team to represent Guyana in chess (on such a platform).

Team member Yolander Persaud had this to say: “The 42nd Chess Olympiad was the most challenging tournament I’ve ever participated in. Upon self-evaluation, it made me realize that I needed more training and tournament experience. The female team was given the privilege and opportunity to be guided by a Grand Master during the Olympiad, and for that I would like to thank FIDE,and GM Georg Mohr for the patience, understanding and support extended to us during his tutelage.”

Another team member Roberto shared his thoughts: “My journey to the Chess Olympiad was filled with trills, and was definitely considered a life learning experience. I was able to tour and transit a lot of countries I never thought of going to. The people in Baku were very friendly. Concerning my performance, I was a bit disappointed,since I was hoping to at least earn a Candidate Master’s title. Despite this letdown, I was happy that I met the U.S.A champion and the World Champion Magnus Carlsen. Thank you to the Guyana Chess Federation for the experience of a lifetime.”

CM Ronuel Greenidge was happy to be on the national team again. “Things didn’t work out for me in the tournament as planned and I will be making the necessary adjustments (to) come back stronger. I thank God and the Sponsors who made it possible for our team to play in this prestigious tournament.”

Haifeng Su,another team member,said, “ My experience at the Chess Olympiad was rather comforting, rather than seeing as another tournament. The comfort lies in the way everyone puts their differences aside just to play the simple sport:Chess. I’m privileged to be a part of this event, an event I can call a milestone. If I were to do it again, I wouldn’t hesitate to represent my home Guyana.”

Taffin Khan also shared his view: ‘My experience at the 2016 Chess Olympiad was very enjoyable. It was one of the hardest tournaments I ever participated in. I met a lot of new and interesting people from different parts of the world. Baku is one of the most beautiful cities I ever saw and I would love to go back there someday to play chess.”

The GCF and the players who participated in the event would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to every sponsor, well-wisher and the media houses who supported their cause. Our sponsors included the National Sports Commission, Courts Guyana, E-Networks Inc., Kings’ Jewelry World, ECI Construction, Dr SenGupta & Associates, Fix- It Hardware Depot, Eastern Airlines, Jumbo Jet Auto Sales,and Attorney-at-Law James Bond.