The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi declared open the 44th Chess Olympiad at JLN Indoor Stadium, Chennai on July 28. Its official logo and mascot is a chess knight called Thambi.
- The Prime Minister noted that the 44th Chess Olympiad has been a tournament of many firsts and records.
- This is the first time the Chess Olympiad is being held in the place of origin of chess, India.
- It is coming to Asia for the first time in 3 decades. It has the highest ever number of countries participating. It has the highest ever number of teams participating.
- It has the highest number of entries in the women’s section. The first ever Torch Relay of the Chess Olympiad started this time, the PM said.
- The matches will take place at the newly constructed (within a month), 43,000 square feet temporary area and a main hall at the Four Points by Sheraton Mahabalipuram Resort & Convention Center, that will accommodate up to 1,400 competitors at a time.
About the 44th Chess Olympiad
- The 44th Chess Olympiad is being held in Chennai from July 28 to August 9, 2022. The prestigious competition, which has been organised since 1927, is being hosted in India for the first time and in Asia after 30 years.
- With 187 countries participating, this will be the largest participation in any Chess Olympiad. India is also fielding its biggest contingent in the competition comprising 30 players across 6 teams.
