8th Sharjah Int’l Masters Chess Champ. kicks off on May 16

Sharjah24: The Sharjah Cultural Chess Club has announced the organisation and hosting of the eighth edition of the Sharjah International Chess Masters Championship from May 16 to 26, with over 350 players participating.

Organisational Committee Formed

At its recent meeting, the club’s board, chaired by Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Hamid Al Qasimi, approved the formation of the organizing committee for the championship. Imran Abdullah Al Nuaimi was appointed as committee head, with Abdullah Murad named tournament director. Ali Saeed Al Jalaf will lead the financial committee, Faisal Al Hamadi will oversee the technical and referees committee, and Wahib Al Zarouni will head the follow-up and evaluation committee. Khalifa Al Mazrouei was assigned to lead the public relations committee, Mahdi Abdul Rahim will chair the appeals committee, Noor Saleh Al Balushi will head the media committee, and Mamoun Saleh Al Durous will serve as the championship’s general coordinator.

Growing Participation Expected

Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Humaid Al Qasimi extended his heartfelt thanks to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, for his unwavering support of sports, athletes, and especially chess, as well as his patronage of the championship. He stressed that this sponsorship represents a great responsibility, highlighting the need to maintain the tournament’s success, which has earned international recognition and elevated Sharjah’s global standing.

The club president also expressed his gratitude to the Sharjah Sports Council for its continuous support of the club and its tournaments, which have played a key role in driving achievements and expanding the player base. He emphasized that these tournaments provide significant advantages in technical, administrative, and organizational aspects, as well as valuable experience for national talents. Sheikh Dr. Khalid highlighted that the latest edition of the championship has attracted considerable interest and anticipates setting a new record for participant numbers, with registrations surpassing 350 players, including numerous titleholders and former champions. Registration is still available.