The Social Fund hosted the final of the first nationwide online chess tournament for members of Communication Centers for Seniors. This ambitious event set up by the Social Fund branch in the Republic of Komi, brought together the best players from 23 Russian regions. The tournament took place on December 18 on a digital platform and became the high point for qualifying stages hosted in all federal districts.
Vsevolod Borovsky, Deputy Chairman of the Social Fund of Russia, addressed the contestants and fans with words of welcome. He pointed out the unique status of the Communication Centers for Seniors and the role they play in shaping a comfortable environment for older people, and wished everyone a fun and exciting game.
Anton Khozyainov, Manager of the Social Fund branch for the Republic of Komi, emphasized the scale of the event, saying: "The geography of the tournament stretches from Kherson Region to Magadan Region. The best players, winners and runners-up of the qualifying stages, have gathered here today. We are looking forward to a very exciting and unpredictable game!"
Ekaterina Gribkova, Senator from the Republic of Komi and curator of the Older Generation party project, also addressed the players, offering a warm encouragement,
"My gratitude goes to the Social Fund branch for supporting this wonderful sport. Chess is a game of true intellectuals, passionate and driven people. I wish everyone to have fun and an excellent game!"
Winners and runners-up of regional competitions faced off in the final. The tournament used the Swiss system and went for 11 rounds, with a time cutoff of 5 minutes per game per player. The highest score determined the winner.
Kazbek Dzhattoev from the Karachay-Cherkess Republic (70) was the tournament's absolute winner. The Candidate Master of Sports played all his games confidently and came out as the best player among members of Communication Centers for Seniors.
Dmitry Donskoy was the tournament's runner-up. The man from the Sakha Republic (Yakutia) (60) is a first class chess player. The bronze went to Igor Uryupin (64), a FIDE (International Chess Federation) Master from Tambov Region.
Communication Centers for Seniors are modern spaces created by the Social Fund of Russia for elderly people. There, one can not only get advice on any issue but also have a good time: find a new hobby, learn digital skills and even win a championship.
Over 975 Communication Centers for Seniors opened across Russia under the Family national project.