Citizens and residents have a final chance to play alongside international champions at the 4th Mindsports World Championships, which kicks off at Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) on Saturday.
Organisers Mindsports Academy (MSA) and hosts Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) are calling on those interested in competing in Chess, Scrabble, Backgammon, Bridge, Go or e-Sports to register for free on www.msawc2017.com.
Saif AlKuwari, Director of PR & Communication at QTA, said, “We are very excited to welcome the world’s most accomplished and committed mindsports players as they battle for the title of the best in their sport, while enjoying uniquely Qatari experiences and a taste of true hospitality.” He added, “Whether they are amateurs, hobbyists or aspiring pros, residents have the unique opportunity to compete alongside internationally renowned players, right here at home in Qatar.”
Chess and Scrabble masters are confirmed to attend this years’ event being held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) sponsored by Official Telecom Partner, Ooredoo. They will be putting themselves to the test to compete in the various events held across the week and offering their skills as trainers for all enthusiasts who wish to attend and learn how to develop their own game play.
British Grand Master,Keith Arkell along with his protégé and current International Master Jack Rudd will be participating, among various Grand Masters and Masters.
“I love travelling the world, and wherever I go the people are very nice. I’m sure this will also be the case with Qatar. Qatar fascinates me. I often watch Al Jazeera, which is based in Qatar,” said Arkell. “I have never been to Qatar or any other Middle Eastern country before. I always enjoy travelling to countries I’ve not been to before, and Qatar I’m sure will be no exception,” said Rudd.
Also coming for the championships are Hungarian-born Grand Master Tamàs Fodor, Jr and young and upcoming chess super star, Ieysaa Bin-Suhayl.
World renowned scrabble player and advocate, Ganesh Asirvatham headlines the field. He had achieved major success in his homeland Malaysia and has won numerous titles including a record breaking 5 national titles. This year in Qatar, Ganesh will be offering his services as a trainer and will be there to share his expertise. Qatar resident and Scrabble enthusiast, PrashanthiWeerawardane will be taking the lead and directing the Scrabble tournament at the 4th Mindsports World Championships. Prashanthi has been playing Scrabble for over 35 years.
When Prashanthi joined Stafford Sri Lankan School Doha (SSLSD) in 2013, she saw an opportunity and began to coach a group of promising young Scrabble players.
The following year, she began organising Inter-School Scrabble Tournaments in Qatar, the first and only Scrabble competition in the country. Today the annual scrabble tournament attracts over 200 players from 10 to 15 schools every year.
