Swat Open Chess concludes

MINGORA: The scenic valley of Swat played host to a thrilling display of intellect and strategy as the Swat Open Chess Championship 2025 concluded successfully on Saturday at a hotel here on Saturday.

The event, organised under the auspices of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chess Association (KPCA) and supported by the Chess Federation of Pakistan (CFP), drew 80 talented players from across the country, including participants from Sindh, Balochistan, Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Held in the Rapid chess format, the championship featured seven intense rounds across three categories: Open, Women, and U-14. The meticulously organised event offered an ideal playing environment, complete with a well-arranged hall and a variety of refreshments, enhancing players’ focus and contributing to some of the most competitive matches witnessed in recent regional tournaments.

In the Open Category, Salman Ali Khan from Islamabad emerged as the champion, showcasing exceptional tactical skills.

The Women’s Category saw a strong performance by Savera Ali, who claimed the top position, reflecting the growing strength and presence of female chess players in Pakistan.

In the U-14 Category, Muhammad Ashaj Tariq clinched first place, followed by Furqan Mughal in second, highlighting the promising future of youth chess in the country.

Swat, a region often associated with historical challenges, once again demonstrated its resilience and progress through the successful hosting of a national-level chess tournament. The event served as a powerful message of peace and intellectual growth, promoting mental sports and engaging the youth in constructive and positive activities.

The championship benefited significantly from the support of the District Sports Officer (DSO) Swat, who provided logistical assistance, venue arrangements, and ensured a secure environment for all participants. This collaboration between sports organizers and local authorities was hailed as a model for future events in the region.