Chess revival gains momentum after successful rapid tournament
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) has hailed the successful completion of its first Rapid Chess Tournament for 2026, describing the event as a major step forward in the revival and growth of chess in the country.
The two-day tournament concluded on Sunday evening at Outback Holiday Resort in Honiara and attracted more than 70 registered players from different age groups and backgrounds.
Participants included experienced players, first-time competitors, youths, women and senior players, with a total of 280 games played across 35 tables during eight competitive rounds.
In a press release issued yesterday, SICF President Simon Chottu said the tournament represented more than just competition, highlighting its importance in building unity and creating opportunities for young Solomon Islanders through chess.
“Chess teaches us patience, respect, critical thinking, and good decision-making — qualities that can help us in our homes, communities, schools, workplaces, and everyday life,” Chottu said during the tournament opening.
He also welcomed players, supporters, parents, officials and members of the public, describing the event as an important milestone for local chess development under the federation’s newly elected executive.
The federation revealed that organisers had initially projected only 24 participants for the tournament before registrations rapidly increased to more than 70 players, signalling growing public interest in the sport.
The tournament championship title was claimed by Fred Resture, who produced an unbeaten performance to finish with a perfect 8/8 record and secure the SBD1500 top prize.
William Kaitu’u finished second with seven points to claim the SBD800 prize, while third and fourth placing competitors both finished on six points to collect SBD500 and SBD300 respectively.
The federation also recognised several consolation prize winners, including Melanie Chottu and Fostina Meke as best female players, Shawn Ataniborau as fairest player, Divine Shanel as youngest player and George Taro as oldest player.
Special acknowledgement was also given to Palm Sugar for sponsoring the consolation prizes.
During the event, President Chottu officially introduced the federation’s newly elected executive board following its recent AGM.
The new leadership team includes Simon Chottu as President, Chris Agikimu’a Kaitu’u as Vice President, Te Menga Angiki as Secretary and Abel Puia as Treasurer.
According to the federation, the new executive plans to strengthen chess development through schools, provincial outreach programs, women’s chess initiatives, regular tournaments and stronger partnerships with international chess organisations including FIDE and Oceania Chess.
Among upcoming initiatives announced by the federation are participation in the Bughouse Championship in Manila next month, discussions surrounding Solomon Islands participation at the Chess Olympiad in September, and the launch of Chess in School Program at Woodford School beginning next week.
“Every great chess player started somewhere. Some of the world’s best players began by simply joining a small local tournament,” Chottu stated.
The successful completion of the tournament marks one of the federation’s strongest local events in recent years as officials continue efforts to rebuild competitive chess and expand participation throughout Solomon Islands.
Photo credit: Richard Menanopo
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
Editor: [email protected]
