The Promenade came alive on Saturday, September 13th, as chess enthusiasts of all ages gathered for the annual Chess Festival, hosted by the Dominica Chess Federation (CHESS). The event highlighted local champions, celebrated the growth of chess in the community, and emphasized the Federation’s mission to expand the game across the island.
In his opening remarks, the President of CHESS acknowledged the players, the executive committee, and supporters who made the event possible. He recognized key contributors including Mr. Ross Boyd, known for his dedication to chess advocacy, and several national champions: Sir Robert Breedy, the 2024 National Chess Champion, and Shijami Pelton, the 2024 Under-18 Junior Champion. The Federation’s technical advisor, Mr. Larry Thomas, was also recognized despite being delayed due to event preparations.
Highlighting the Federation’s objectives, the President emphasized the importance of introducing chess in schools. “We have revived several inactive clubs and established new clubs in secondary schools. Our next step is to work with the Ministry of Education to introduce chess in primary schools. Chess is not just for the ‘smart’; it’s for anyone willing to think,” he remarked.
Over the past few years, the Dominica Chess Federation has hosted numerous tournaments, including the National Chess Championship, Women’s Championship, Inter-Schools Tournament, and Under-18 Junior Championship. Notable winners include Nigel Francis, Robert Breedy, and Ayani Kazini, the latter representing Dominica internationally at just 15 years old.
Dominican players have also competed abroad, participating in the 2023 and 2024 World Chess Olympiads in Budapest, Hungary, as well as the first and second editions of the Parry Bomb Chess Classic. Their performances have shown steady improvement, and the Federation is committed to continued growth and international representation.
The Chess Festival at the Promenade not only celebrated local achievements but also inspired a new generation to embrace chess as a tool for strategic thinking, discipline, and personal growth.
