Gambian Chess player Ebrima Bah has emerged as winner of the Gambia National Open Chess Championship held at the Badala Park Hotel from 28 February to 2 March 2014.
As winner of the 2014 National Championship fully sponsored by Kasparov Chess Foundation for Africa, Ebrima Bah went home with a cash prize of $600.
Momodou Lamin Bittaye took second position while Joseph Dallaih came out third in the championship. Each received a cash prize of $275.
Habib Mboob, Ousman Aw, Eliman Lemon, Fally Saidy, Momodou Lamin Sowe, Ousainou Garber and Melvicusatta Jones occupied 4th to 10th position respectively. Each was awarded a cash prize of $150.
Speaking to reporters shortly after being crowned champion of the competition, Ebrima Bah said he was delight at winning the championship, saying he hopes to win it again.
He has been playing chess since 1992, he said, adding that the just concluded competition is the fourth time he has been crowned national champion.
He therefore thanks God for giving him the gift in the game and the victory once more.
He called on the Gambia Chess Federation (GCF) to continue to help and support them to participate in international competitions, saying they have the capability, standard and talent in the game but need sponsorship.
The GCF is working hard to see that they participate in the Olympiad to be held in Norway, said Mr Bah, who only drew a single game and won the rest of his games in the championship.
The Gambian chess players have the talent to compete with any players in the world, he reiterated, saying they need exposure.
He also thanked the sponsors of the championship, Kasparov, his parents and wife for all their support.
