PANAJI
GM R R Laxman of Chennai with 7.50 points was crowned champion at the All India Liberation Cup Fide Rapid Rating Open Chess Tournament organised by Queens Chess and Cultural Club at St Michael's Community Centre, Taliegao on Wednesday.
FM Sharan Rao of Karnataka, Anadkat Kartavya of Gujarat, IM Nitish Belurkar of Goa and IM Sammed Shete of Maharastra, all with 7.5 points, were placed 2nd to 5th, respectively. FM Ritviz Parab and Devesh Naik of Goa with 7 points were in 6th and 7th place.
AGM Sa Kannan, Paarth Salvi, Rishikesh Parab, IM Vikramaditya Kulkarni and Aryan Raikar, also with 7 points, were in the 8th to 13th place. Overall prize money of Rs 2 lakh and 33 trophies were given to the winners.
Earlier speaking on the occasion, chief guest Yogish Dempo complimented the Queens Club for efficiently organising the event. He also lauded the various activities of Queens Club, an all-women club. Guest of honour, Secretary of Goa Chess Association, Ashesh Keni, also complimented the Queens Club for their contribution to the growth of chess.
Dr Roopa Belurkar outlined the club's activities, Sunetra Dagare proposed the vote of thanks while Dr Pradnya Kakodkar compered the function. Arbiters Tanishq Kavalekar, Snehil Shetty and Queens Club members Sarika Chopdekar, Vishalakshi Shetty, Teja Hadkonkar, Dr Rekha Poduwal, Renuka Hawal; Balakrishnan V and Sanjay Belurkar were also present.
