The Guyana Chess Federation (GCF), has commenced discussing with three prominent FIDE personnel the creation of a programme that would lead to elevation of the standard and ratings of local players.
GCF president Frankie Farley alongside Attorney-at-Law Yolander Persaud, FIDE Ethics and Disciplinary Commission Councillor
The prominent FIDE personnel are Sonja Johnson, Chairwoman, FIDE Planning and Development Commission; GM Victor Bologan, Executive Director, FIDE Management Board; and Attorney-at-Law Yolander Persaud, FIDE Ethics and Disciplinary Commission councillor.
The objective is to create a “VIRTUAL CHESS INCUBATOR” in which local chess players would have one-on-one, world-class training from reputable FIDE-accredited GMs and IMs. This initiative/collaboration is being pursued in conjunction with the consulates of the USA, Russia, Cuba, India and China.The GCF believes it is time that Guyana produces its first Grandmaster. To achieve this ultimate goal, it’s necessary to enhance the lagging training capacity. The large pool of talented young players deserves the best environment and training tools to excel and play stronger and excellent chess. When this publication last spoke with GCF president Frankie Farley, he had expressed a burning desire to take chess to the next level, after taking office in the latter part of 2019. Despite the COVID-19 restrictions, Farley and his committee are working assiduously to see Guyana attain a Grandmaster possibly by 2022.
Every effort is being made to avoid the game being perceived as elitist. In fact, for this strategy to be successful, it must necessarily be viewed as a pastime that can be enjoyed by all, starting at the grassroots. In order to achieve this, the GCF intends to implement chess-playing in schools; formulate initiatives to foster the formation of clubs; increase women’s participation in the playing of chess; start grassroots programmes in regard to the playing of chess; develop an interest in this game in hinterland regions, and facilitate diaspora participation in the promotion of chess locally.
At conclusion of these discussions, a programme would be produced and presented for implementation. This programme would be integrated into the annual schedule of activities as the GCF moves forward.
The GCF believes it is time that Guyana produces its first Grandmaster. To achieve this ultimate goal, it’s necessary to enhance the lagging training capacity. The large pool of talented young players deserves the best environment and training tools to excel and play stronger and excellent chess. When this publication last spoke with GCF president Frankie Farley, he had expressed a burning desire to take chess to the next level, after taking office in the latter part of 2019. Despite the COVID-19 restrictions, Farley and his committee are working assiduously to see Guyana attain a Grandmaster possibly by 2022. 
