BY RICHARD MENANOPO
The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) has announced that it will host the Sir Peter Kenilorea Championship 2026 on July 7 as part of the country’s 48th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
In a notice posted on its official social media platform yesterday, SICF said the championship is being organised in honour of the nation’s founding Prime Minister, Sir Peter Kenilorea, while also promoting the continued development of chess in the Solomon Islands.
“The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) is honoured to announce that we will host the Sir Peter Kenilorea Championship 2026 on 7 July 2026 as part of the celebrations marking the 48th Independence Anniversary of the Solomon Islands,” the federation stated.
SICF said the tournament aims to promote “unity, strategic thinking, sportsmanship, and the continued growth of chess throughout the country.”
According to the federation, the event will feature teams and players from around the country competing in a spirit of friendship and national pride during the independence celebrations.
The competition will be held as a team tournament, with each side consisting of four players and one reserved player.
SICF also confirmed that official notation will be required for all participating players.
Registration for the championship will officially open on June 8, while further details regarding team registration, tournament format, venue and prizes will be announced later.
“The tournament will bring together teams and players from across the Solomon Islands to compete in a spirit of friendship and national pride as we celebrate our independence,” SICF added.
The federation is encouraging players, clubs and chess enthusiasts throughout the country to take part in the championship as part of the nation’s independence commemorations.
The Sir Peter Kenilorea Championship 2026 is expected to strengthen the profile of chess in the Solomon Islands while recognising the legacy and leadership of one of the country’s most respected national figures.
SICF continues to promote chess development under its “Chess for Growth” vision, with growing participation from schools, communities and provincial players in recent years.
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