BY RICHARD MENANOPO
The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) is taking its chess development drive beyond Honiara, with a mini chess tournament set to be held in Gizo, Western Province this weekend.
According to an announcement by SICF, the Gizo Mini Chess Tournament will take place this Saturday, 27 June 2026, at the Gizo Youth Centre, and the event aims to bring together chess players from across Western Province.
The tournament is being organised by SICF in partnership with Gizo entrepreneur Schulte Maetoloa and is open to both new and experienced chess players.
SICF said the full-day tournament will provide an opportunity for players to compete, learn and enjoy the growing sport of chess.
“Bring your chess skills, your bottle of water, and be ready for a great day of competition, learning, and fun,” SICF stated in its announcement.
The federation confirmed registration for the tournament is free, while transport support from Nikunau to Gizo and return, together with light refreshments, will be provided for participants.
The initiative forms part of the federation’s ongoing efforts to encourage greater participation in chess and extend opportunities for players outside the capital.
The tournament will also provide an avenue for chess enthusiasts in Western Province, including newcomers to the sport, to experience competitive chess in a community setting.
Participants have been encouraged to attend the event prepared, with SICF reminding players to bring their own water bottles.
For further information, players can contact tournament partner Schulte Maetoloa on 7477644.
Chess has continued to gain recognition in Solomon Islands in recent years, with SICF working to promote the sport through competitions, community activities and opportunities that aim to introduce more people, especially young players, to the game.
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