St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) defeated Grenada in the Chatoyer Bilateral Chess Competition, marking another exciting chapter in the region’s growing chess rivalry.
The two Windward Islands clashed in the second year of this championship.
In five intense rounds of play, both teams showcased remarkable skill, determination, and sportsmanship, with Team St. Vincent and the Grenadines triumphing in a hard-fought battle.
The 2024 version saw the Grenadians cruise past SVG and lift the inaugural championship trophy on their way to Grenada.
The Vedant Shetty-led Team SVG CHESS, coached by Kennedy Ikechuku, with Orisia Robinson as manager, restored the Vincy pride over the National Heroes Day weekend.
The Chatoyer spirit was awoken as the SVG team returned the favour by crushing their Grenadian counterparts.
The Grenadians started with great resilience but Vedant Shetty and his team had other ideas.
Competition Results:
- Round 1: March 14 — Grenada win 3.5 – 2.5
- Round 2: March 15 — SVG win 4 – 2
- Round 3: March 15 — SVG win 3.5 – 2.5
- Round 4: March 16 – Grenada 3 – SVG 3
- Round 5: March 16 — SVG win 3.5 – 2.5
Dr P. Shetty was the official arbiter of the 2025 edition, replacing K. Daniel of Barbados who served as arbiter in 2024.
SVG Captain Vedant Shetty was the most outstanding player of the championship, winning all five of his matches. He expressed pride in representing his country and shared his joy in the way his teammates complemented his leadership on the boards.
Meanwhile, the team manager said the Chatoyer Competition has been an unforgettable experience for Team SVG.
“Each game challenged us to push our limits, sharpen our skills, and grow both individually and as a team. The opportunity to compete against such talented opponents has been truly inspiring, and we are grateful for every lesson learned along the way,” Robinson said.
She said that beyond the competition, “this journey has been about more than just winning — it has been about building connections and embracing the values of sportsmanship and resilience. We leave this event with a deep sense of pride, knowing we gave our best, won, and represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines with honour.”
The SVG Chess Federation will next turn its attention to its annual meeting, scheduled for March 29.
Immediately following the meeting, the SVGCF will host its first-ever Blitz Chess Championship on April 21.
This will see top players in three categories: Open, Female and Youths 17 years and under.
This version requires players to move their pieces rather rapidly as the time for each game will be vastly reduced.