Qatar Masters Open is unique: says Qatar Chess Association president Al Mudahka
DOHA: Qatar Masters Open chess has always attracted big names from the reigning champion Magnus Carlson of Norway to India’s Viswanathan Anand, hailed as one of the top legends in chess.
The tournament was first held in 2014, and the field was a big draw.
“Qatar Masters Open is a trademark for us. We started this competition in 2014. The players have always shown interest to take part in this event,” said Qatar Chess Association president Mohammed Al Mudahka.
“It has a unique format. We don’t see a rest day in any Open tournaments in the world. This what’s make Qatar Masters unique.”
The tournament started at the Torch Ball Room on Tuesday and will continue until December 12.
On Monday, a technical meeting will be held at the Torch Hotel.
“We’ve limited the rating to 300 and above. This was done to attract top players. So that they don’t play against weak players,” added the QCA president, who is also one of Qatar’s well-known Grandmaster.
Regarding the extent of the benefit of organising this tournament for players ranked under 2500 points, Al Mudahka said, “In recent years, we’ve had organised multiple tournaments for the kids. We’re hosting some chess in schools, primarily in 12 government schools.”
In recent years, the QCA under the leadership of its president has organised several competitions for the kids besides organising training camps.
There has been a gradual rise in the number of chess players since he became the head of QCA.
“We try to encourage women participation. Besides there is co-operation with the Qatar Foundation in this framework,” he added.
Al Mudahka said the Qatar Masters Open B Championship will witness participation of 20 Qatari players. “Top international events in Qatar provide a great opportunity to our players to raise their level of classification. Qatari players also get the chance to interact with different schools of thought in chess,” said Al Mudahka, who is also a vice-president of Arab Chess Federation.
