Phase Two of 2024 National Chess Championship begins 2 January

Phase Two of the 2024 National Chess Championship kicks off on Thursday (2 January) at the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons (GCPS), running until Sunday (5 January). 

This pivotal stage of the competition will see the nation’s top five FIDE-ranked players (as of 1 December 2024) face off against the top five finishers from Phase One, all vying for the coveted title of Ghana’s national chess champion.

However, just days before the tournament begins, a series of withdrawals has shaken up the field. 

Three of the country’s highest-ranked players—defending champion Candidate Master (CM) Dr. Kwabena Adu-Poku, FIDE Master (FM) John Hasford, and Ghana Chess Association (GCA) President Philip Ameku—have pulled out of the competition.

Adding to the surprise, Clinton Abdul-Raheem, who had earned a place in Phase Two after finishing fourth in Phase One, has also opted not to compete in the grand finale.

These changes have paved the way for new contenders to step in. CM Clinton Fomevor, Philip Amoako, and David Ameku now replace the absent players, bringing their impressive FIDE rankings to the forefront. 

Rising chess star Jeshurun Pryce-Tandoh, who finished in sixth place during Phase One, will also make an appearance in Phase Two, taking Abdul-Raheem’s spot.

The revised list of participants for Phase Two is as follows:

1. International Master (IM) Anquandah Francis (1992)
2. CM Anhwere Bernard (1892)
3. CM Clinton Cephas Fomevor (1874)
4. Amoako Selikem Philip (1866)
5. Ameku David Selase (1857)
6. CM Frempong-Smart Daniel (1852)
7. Akpa Prince (1829)
8. Maxwell Kwasi Kporxah (1682)
9. Jeshurun Pryce-Tandoh (1553)
10. Harry Sarkodee-Adoo (1441)

With a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, this year’s Phase Two promises to deliver thrilling chess action.

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