In the late Mangla Shankar Samudra Memorial Rapid Chess Tournament, jointly organized by the Chess Sports Trust and approved by the Pune District Chess Circle (PDCC), nine players emerged as leaders across different categories. At Ashwamedh Hall, Karve Road, the tournament saw intense competition among skilled players from various age groups.
In the Open category, Saurabh Mhamane secured a victory over Siddhant Tamhankar, accumulating 5 points. Meanwhile, Aditi Kayal also performed exceptionally well, earning 5 points after defeating Aryan Singla. In the Under 15 category, the battle between Pratithi Khandelwal and Purv Chauhan ended in a draw, with both players reaching 4.5 points. Arnav Tapkir also drew his match against Varad Gaikwad, maintaining his score at 4.5 points.
Other notable results included Kshitij Prasad’s win against Raghav Pavde(4), Kevin Mathiazgan’s victory over Rijul Kurhade(3.5), and Marmik Shah’s success against Ojas Pillay(3.5), all securing 4.5 points each. Lathik Ram(4) defeated Vedant Kale(3), while Aditya Telangi(4) triumphed over Neo Jid(3). Prakhar Purandare(4) and Shubham Ghanwat(4) also emerged victorious against Raunak Jakhotia(3) and Shubhankar Barve(3) respectively.
The tournament, inaugurated by Grandmasters Abhijit Kunte, Sunil Mokal, and Prachi Mokal, was graced by the presence of dignitaries including Prakash Kunte, Managing Trustee of Chess Sports Trust, Chief Arbiter Vinita Khotri, FA Shraddha Vichvekar, and others.
The competition in the Open Group witnessed Saurabh Mhamane leading with 5 points after defeating Siddhant Tamhankar(4). Aditi Kayal also maintained her strong performance with 5 points, triumphing over Aryan Singla(3.5). Sameer Kathmale, Om Lamkane, and Yash Watarkar each scored 4.5 points, winning their respective matches against Aditya Joshi(3.5), Anushka Kutwal(3.5), and Adarsh Mishra(4.5).
Other results in the Open Group included Om Ramgude’s(3) loss to Aryan Shah(4), Avirat Chauhan’s(4) victory over Sai Patil(3), Pawan Kulkarni’s(3) defeat by Sera Dagaria(4), Kalpesh Devang’s(4) win against Dhaval Londhe(3), and Suyog Wadke’s(4) success over Aniket Bhunia(3).
The Chess tournament, marked by strategic play and competitive spirit, showcased the talent and dedication of the participants under the enthusiastic support of chess enthusiasts and organizers alike.
