Candidate Master Taffin Khan sits atop the point standings as several upsets highlighted day three in the ongoing Ram & McRae National Open Chess Champion-ship Qualifiers at the Providence National Stadium, East Bank of Demerara, on Saturday.
Khan survived the wave of unpredictable results as he defeated rising star Sachin Pitamber. Meanwhile, junior champion Keron Sandiford defeated Gilbert Williams. Sandiford also defeated Hussain, who resigned. On the other hand, Ethan Lee claimed victory against Errol Tiwari after the veteran player exceeded his time control.
Also, Pitamber, in his second match, defeated the experienced Justino DaSilva, who resigned during their encounter after realising the looming threat of two connected passed pawns attaining promotion.
Also, 15-year-old Alex Benjamin played to a draw against Rashad Hussain.
Presently, Candidate Master Khan leads the standings with six points, while Ethan Lee closely follows with five points. Pitamber and Keron Sandiford sit on 4.5 points, while Roberto Neto and Justino Da Silva Gilbert Williams and Loris Nathoo are perched on 4 points.
Meanwhile, the tournament sponsor, Ram and McRae Chartered Accountants, presented the sponsorship cheque to the Guyana Chess Federation. In a simple ceremony, Felicia Hack, Manager of Accounts at the establishment, handed over the check to the GCF’s Company Secretary, Marcia Lee. Up to press time, rounds seven and eight were being contested.
