The inaugural Gaico seven-round chess tournament is gradually becoming more competitive as the rounds are being completed. The competition is popular because it represents the transparent Grand Prix formula. The more points one obtains during the Grand Prix series, the more chances one has of representing Guyana at the international level, including the rigorous 2020 Chess Olympiad in Russia.
Simultaneously, the quality of Guyana’s chess will improve. In the Grand Prix series of six tournaments, the three highest scores would be considered for each competitor. Though in certain tournaments, the points would be higher than perhaps a past one, for example, the national championships would command a higher points rate. Why? Because it is the national championships. In all likelihood the games would be tougher, livelier, more meaningful, and fulfilling. The reward should, therefore, be greater.