THE Jamaica Chess Federation (JCF) celebrated its 54th anniversary on Saturday, and president, National Master Peter Myers says there are more plans to grow the sport through monthly tournaments in the near future.

Myers, who says he is proud of chess’ achievement in what he describes as a world dominated by more physical sports, was addressing the JCF’s members in a newsletter recently, and thanked players, parents of players, coaches, clubs, schools and arbiters, funders, sponsors, and supporters for their contributions to the sport’s development.

While acknowledging the setbacks caused to the sport by the COVID-19 pandemic, he said the JCF held its own at that time.

“It has not only endangered human lives but also dealt a blow to the global economy,” he said. “Despite all odds and in spite of the odds, chess was able to develop and implement a plan which involved us pivoting online and allowed us to continue on our forward journey.”

But Myers says his focus is now on building on the legacy of the federation over the past 54 years.

“In the time ahead the JCF intends to grow the sport by, among other things, making its presence felt even more through expansion of its activities,” he said.

“The national executive council will continue to organise its monthly tournament activities and participate in overseas events as we seek to foster the development of our players to world-class standards.

“Over the next two years we will also seek to implement a strategy to continue the work of our forefathers involving the development of the sport within communities across Jamaica.”