By Kehinde OSAGIEDE

A 19-year old computer Engineering student of the University of Benin, Eyetonghan Denyefa Callistus has emerged Champion of Austin Apemiye Open Rapid Chess competition in Benin city.

The versatile Deltan came out tops among thirty-six players in the game which held at the University of Benin on Saturday, beginning from 11am to 6:00PM.

The 300 Level student went home with a cash prize of N30,000 and he is being sponsored by the game organiser Austin Apemiye to participate in the African Youth Chess Championship, scheduled to hold in 3rd September to 12th, 2021 in Accra, Ghana.

Speaking with the Nigerian Observer Sports, the sponsor and chief organiser of the Chess game, Mr Austin Apemiye, Chairman Continental Development Commission of the African Chess Federation, expressed satisfaction with the performance of Eyetonghan, hence he promised to sponsor the champion to participate in the 2021 African Youth Chess Championship in Accra, Ghana.

Highlighting the benefits of the game of Chess, Mr Apemiye said Chess helps to develop the analytical skills in a person and that it supports strategic planning.

The Chartered Accountant revealed that as part of his commitment to promote and develop the game of Chess, he would be sponsoring the South-South Chess Challenge, a FIDE classical rated event, holding in Bayelsa State between 22nd and 24th of July 2022.