The Sports Outreach Ministries (SOM) Chess Academy announced the inaugural SOM Easter Open Chess Championship, set to take place from March 29th (today) to April 1st, 2024.
The highly anticipated event will be held at the Academy’s headquarters in Katwe, Makindye.
International Tournament with Ugandan Flair
This FIDE-rated competition promises to be a landmark event, attracting players from five African federations and over 150 participants.
With a total prize pool exceeding 10 million Ugandan shillings (including additional prizes in form of trophies and medals), the championship offers exciting opportunities for both male and female players, and special categories.
A Platform for Growth and Development
Founder of SOM Chess Academy, Engineer Robert Katende, highlighted the significance of the tournament.
“This championship is open to players from various clubs due to popular demand,” he explained. “It provides a platform for our players to compete favorably with others and elevate Ugandan chess to new heights.”
The launch comes amidst the Academy’s recent construction of a world-class facility, overcoming past limitations in hosting international chess tournaments. The exceptional venue paves the way for SOM to become a hub for future chess events.
Support and High Expectations
The event has garnered international support, with guest Scott Low from the United States expressing his excitement about the participation of high-ranked players and anticipating a fierce competition.
Transforming Lives Through Chess
The SOM Chess Academy is renowned for its positive impact on young lives. Many players, like Nansubuga Maria, have received life-changing opportunities such as full school bursaries through their participation in Academy events.
Prize Breakdown
The tournament offers a range of attractive prizes:
- Open Category:
- 1st Place: 1,000,000 UGX
- 2nd Place: 750,000 UGX
- 3rd Place: 500,000 UGX
- 4th Place: 250,000 UGX
- 5th Place: 125,000 UGX
- Ladies Category:
- 1st Place: 1,000,000 UGX
- 2nd Place: 750,000 UGX
- 3rd Place: 500,000 UGX
- 4th Place: 250,000 UGX
- 5th Place: 125,000 UGX
- Special Prizes:
- Best Differently Abled Player: 100,000 UGX
- Best Senior Player (Over 50): 100,000 UGX
- Best Junior Player (U19 00 Rating): 100,000 UGX
- Best Junior Player (U16 00 Rating): 100,000 UGX
- Best Overall Junior Player: 100,000 UGX
Photo credit: Gonzaga Kakeeto
