Vozza wins Malta Chess Open

The tournament, which was a seven-round Swiss format open to all chess players, was well attended by both Maltese and foreign contenders.

The Malta Chess Federation hosted the event at its Sliema premises, and was pleased to see the event attract a healthy number of newcomers.

The Malta Open trophy went to Italian veteran Nicola Vozza with Swedish Alexander Pettersson, a long-time member of the MCF and representative on the Maltese Olympic team, finishing second also with 5 ½ points but with less Buchholz then Vozza.

Maltese Oliver Said showed great combative spirit and won Pettersson in the last game of the final round, to clinch third prize.

German Andreas Comtesse won the “Best Unrated” award. Trophies and awards were presented to the winners by Colin Pace and Kenneth J. Borg from the Malta Chess Federation Committee.

Upcoming events

The next Malta Chess Federation event, the Rapid Grand Prix, kicks off on February 7th 10am at the MCF premises in Sliema, and will go on through to October, every first Sunday of the month.

Each rapid tournament will comprise 5-rounds Swiss format, with 15 minutes per player per game. Play will usually be over by 1pm. Entry fee is 2.50 Euros for members, and 5 Euros for non-members.

Players looking for the classic 2-hour per player game, can subscribe to the 2nd Sunday Open Tournament kicking off on February 14 through to October every Second Sunday of the month.

Each tournament will comprise a 9-round Swiss system, with play starting at 10am. More details, entry fees and venue will be available shortly on www.chessmalta.com

The Malta Chess Federation is also organising a Blitz Grand Prix every third Sunday of the month starting February 21st. Each tournament will comprise a 7-round Swiss system, with 5 minutes per player to finish.

The Blitz Grand Prix tournaments will be held at Pasha, in the Artisan Centre, Bay Street Complex St.Julian’s.

Further updates will be available on www.chessmalta.com and on the “Chess in Malta” Facebook group.

Source: http://www.maltasport.com