MUSCAT: The blitz chess competitions were held on Monday evening as part of the Muscat Nights International Chess Championship, in a fast-paced and exciting atmosphere that reflected the true nature of blitz chess, which relies on quick decision-making and precise execution under time pressure. The blitz event added a different technical dimension alongside the classical chess competitions and attracted strong interest from both players and spectators.
The blitz championship was played according to the Swiss system over 11 rounds, with a time control of 3 minutes per player plus a 2-second increment per move. This format imposed a high tempo on the players. It tested their ability to maintain focus and make decisive moves, where fine details played a crucial role in determining match results and final standings.
MAYANK ON TOP
At the end of the eleven rounds, India's Mayank Chakraborty claimed the championship title after finishing in first place with 10 points, delivering a consistent performance that allowed him to pull ahead of a strong chase group of top-rated players. Egypt's Adham Fawzy secured second place with 9 points, while India’s Pranesh M finished third with 9 points as well. Iran’s Radin Yadegar followed closely in fourth place, also with 9 points, highlighting the intense competition and close margins at the top, with tie-break criteria determining the final order among players with equal scores.
The excitement continued in the following positions, with India’s Iniyan Pa finishing fifth on 8.5 points, followed by Iran’s Poormosavi, Seyed Kian in sixth with 8.5 points, and Iran’s Samimi, Armin in seventh, also on 8.5 points, keeping the battle tight through the middle of the standings with only half-point differences separating the players.
In positions eight through eleven, Turkey’s Akbas, Umut Ata were eighth with 8 points, Russia’s Rogov, Matfey came ninth with 8 points, Iran’s Biglarifard, Koorosh finished 10th with 8 points, while Syria’s Rami, Talab completed the list of leading players in 11th place, also with 8 points, underscoring the highly competitive density and balance among a wide group of participants.
Khalid al Malki, a member of the Oman Chess Committee, said the second edition of the championship has seen clear growth in participation and technical standards, with around 270 players from 35 countries, compared to 200 players from 26 countries last year. He added that the positive feedback from players and delegations confirms the success of the organisation and the championship’s rising international profile.
Jordanian international player Ahmed al Khatib praised the high technical and organisational standards of the Muscat Nights International Chess Championship, describing it as comparable to major global events.
On his first visit to Oman, he said the tournament exceeded his expectations in terms of organisation, facilities, and player comfort. He noted the strong and diverse level of competition, featuring experienced international players and promising young talents, made the title race highly competitive.
Al Khatib concluded that, beyond results, the tournament offers valuable experience, and he commended the organising committee for their professional efforts.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
