Kevilekho Zumvu- open category winner of 1st Suthozumi All Nagaland Online Open Chess Tournament.
Kevilekho Zumvu wins Open; Vibeto Assumi wins U-17; Ilung Haikam wins U-11; Tsesam best female player
KOHIMA, AUGUST 15 (MExN): The Online State Chess Tournament organised by the Suthozumi Chess Association concluded successfully with 52 players of all ages and skill levels participating. The event brought together a wide range of participants, from seasoned veterans to promising young talents.
In the Open category, Kevilekho Zumvu emerged as the champion with an impressive 11.5 points, while Mughaho Awomi and Khoveto Vero secured the second and third positions respectively. The top 20 players in this category were awarded prizes.
The junior categories also saw rising stars make their mark. In the Under-17 section, Vibeto Assumi claimed the top spot, followed by Icicang Haikam and Setsuzo Phesao. The Under-11 category was won by Ilung Haikam, with Otsi Tunyi and Reku Haikum finishing in second and third place. Tsesam was honoured with the prize for the best female player for her outstanding performance.
The tournament drew several distinguished participants, including numerous former and current state and national players. Their involvement, organisers said, “added depth to the event, inspiring young players and igniting a passion for chess.” The strong competition resulted in “thrilling, high-level matches, showcasing the timeless beauty of the game where age and gender are no barriers on the 64 squares.”
The growing popularity of chess was also noted. “The recent success of Indian chess players, including 19-year-old Gukesh Dommaraju becoming the world champion and three Indian players currently ranking among the top six in the FIDE ratings, has ignited hope and inspiration for a new generation of players, signalling a bright future for the sport in the country,” the organisers stated.
