Awards Trophy to 13-Year-Old Ekunke for Emerging as Overall Champion
The monthly chess tournament organized by the Bayelsa State Chess Association has wrapped up in Yenagoa, the state’s capital. Sponsored by the Niger Delta University (NDU), the event aimed to prepare players for future competitions and drew participants from across the state.
In the open category, Omorere Benjamin secured the top spot with 6.5/7 points, followed by Igolukumo Felix in second place with 5.5/7 points, and Ekunke Goodness in third place with 5/7 points, after initially leading the games.
Special awards were given to several participants: Ebiakpo Cherish was named the best female player with 3/7 points, Asingbi Douye received the Best 45+ award with 4.5/7 points, Alagoa Kere won the Best NDU award with 5/7 points, and Bayefa Oyeinkeperemo was recognized as the best U:10 player with 4/7 points.
Mr. Bomo Kigigha, the Head Coach of the Bayelsa State Chess Association, expressed his gratitude to the Vice Chancellor of the Niger Delta University and other sponsors for their continuous support throughout the year, calling it commendable. He mentioned that the association is looking forward to a successful December tournament and is working hard to attract more sponsors to enhance participation from across the country.
Mr. Kigigha added that the monthly championship is showing positive results, as evidenced by Bayelsa’s strong performance in the National Youth Games and National Sports Festival.
The highlight of the November tournament was the awarding of the trophy to the overall champion, 13-year-old Goodness Ekunke, who has now won the event three times.
