IM Ramanathan Balasubramaniam of ICF stood first with 7.5 points. This is his 5th victory at the Adyar Times Chess Tournament.
The 20th edition of the Adyar Times FIDE Rated Open Chess Tournament was held from Sept.29 to Oct.2 at Bala Vidya Mandir School, Gandhi Nagar, Adyar, Chennai. The tournament was held after a break of 2 years due to the pandemic and registered a record 484 participants this year, including three foreign federations – Bangladesh, Botswana and USA.
This renowned tournament organised by the Tamil Nadu State Chess Association carried a total prize money of Rs.2,50,000 and a champion’s trophy, apart from the attractive trophies for other prize winners in the children category.
In a Round Swiss event, IM Ramanathan Balasubramaniam of ICF stood first with 7.5 points. This is his 5th victory at the Adyar Times Chess Tournament. Apart from the Champion’s trophy, Balasubramaniam received a cash prize of Rs.35,000. In a six way tie for the runner up position, M.S.Midlesh was adjudged second on account of his higher tie-break score. The third place was held by Narayanan Iyengar.
S. Paul Arokia Raj, Chief Arbiter and coordinator of the tournament welcomed the participants. A.Murugavel, Vice President – TNSCA, appreciated Adyar Times for being one of the few consistent sponsors of the chess event. “Many of the participants from this tournament have gone on to become grandmasters and international grandmasters,” he said.
D.V.Sundar, former Vice-President – FIDE, recalled the origins of the tournament and said, “The Adyar Times founder, S.P.Ambrose immediately agreed, but put forth one condition – that the tournament should be conducted in the Adyar locality.”
Arjuna awardee and International Master Manuel Aaron appreciated the participants and said, “I hope you have all achieved your dreams today.”
The principal of Bala Vidya Mandir, Dr.Srinivasa Raghavan encouraged the players to continue playing despite the results of the matches. He also appreciated the parents for encouraging the children to pursue the game.
J.P.Janakan, Managing Editor of Adyar Times said, “It is our privilege to sponsor the event for the 20th year. The tournament encourages many youngsters to participate in the event.” While encouraging the participants to pursue the mental game, he also emphasised on the need for physical exercise for a healthy mind and to improve the game. He also asked the participants to have specific targets and goals to progress, and requested all to be ambassadors of the sport.
All the dignitaries thanked Dr.Srinivasa Raghavan for facilitating the tournament. A.Murugavel gave the vote of thanks.
