Tura, June 20: Silence filled the hall at Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Rongkhon, on Friday as dozens of players fixed their gaze on 64 squares, planning each move strategically and with patience. For this was no ordinary occasion as the chess players from across Garo Hills converged for the District Level Selection Chess Tournament 2026, and a win here will take them to the state-level championship.
The two-day tournament, organised by the Garo Hills Chess Association (GHCA), got underway in Tura on Friday. The players are competing under the Swiss System format in over seven rounds spread across the two days. The tournament serves as the selection event for the Meghalaya State Chess Championship, with the top 12 finishers earning the qualifications to represent Garo Hills at the state-level competition.
The youngest competitor at the event is 6-year-old Besorah Ch. Momin, while the oldest are seasoned players aged over 60. 12-year-old Aysara Ringmitelachi Ch. Momin is also among the promising young talents hoping to make their mark against more experienced opponents.
Chess has been gaining popularity in Garo Hills and the wide age range in the tournament reflects it.
The tournament opened with a welcome address by GHCA Secretary Tengrang R. Sangma, who underscored the growing significance of chess in nurturing critical thinking, discipline and sportsmanship among young players.
Former GHCA Secretary Francis A. Sangma formally inaugurated the competition by making the ceremonial first move, signalling the start of two days of intense competition.
Chief Arbiter Raju Upadhaya later briefed participants on tournament regulations and emphasised the importance of fair play and strict adherence to the laws of the World Chess Federation (FIDE).
