31.10.2018

Kirsan Ilyumzhinov: Elista firmly holds the title of the chess capital of Russia

From 25 to 28 October 2018, second All-Russian Students Chess Tournament Kalmyk Chess was held in the Chess City Hall of Elista. It was attended by 21 teams from different regions of the country. Students played rapid chess with 25 minutes per player per game for four days.

A celebration in honour of the winners of second All-Russian Students Chess Tournament was held in the Chess City Hall. The sporting event gathered over 70 participants from 21 regions of Russia. The strongest chess players among our country students were revealed.

The tournament is included in the All-Russian Register of Sports and, according to the tradition laid down by Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, was held in order to popularize chess among students and to promote their intellectual development.
Answering the question about what the 6th FIDE President thinks about holding student chess tournaments, Kirsan Ilyumzhinov said: “I am happy that the All-Russian Student Chess Tournament was held in Elista, my hometown. I am glad that it took place in the Chess City. Elista firmly holds the title of the chess capital of Russia. It is wonderful that young people show great interest in this ancient and beautiful game. I am sure that this game can change the world for the better. Still, chess is a priceless gift that humanity has not fully appreciated.”