ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica – The St Elizabeth Police Division’s community outreach program recently scored a resounding success with the hosting of the Draughts-64 Community Outreach Open Championships.

This initiative was part of the division’s efforts to engage with the community and promote positive relationships.

The tournament attracted some of Jamaica’s top Draughts-64 players from various parishes, showcasing the game’s widespread appeal. Notably, three police personnel participated in the event, with Deputy Superintendent Jermaine Delattibudiere making a late entry and finishing an impressive fifth.

He was followed by colleagues District Constable Kanhi ‘Burru’ Gowdie and Constable Wayne ‘Hardwayne’ Whyte, who secured 9th and 12th positions.

However, the day belonged to international Grandmaster Wayne Reid, who emerged victorious and reaffirmed his status as Jamaica’s best Draughts-64 player since 1997.

His impressive performance also solidified his position as the top player in the Pan American region, having earned the title of Grandmaster International (GMI) after winning the last Pan American Championships held in Montego Bay. He then went on to win the American Pool Checkers Association Championships held in South Carolina, USA, in July 2023.

Rondane ‘Bob’ Reid, a young man in his 20s, created an upset by finishing second in the Draughts-64 Community Outreach Open Championships held at AAIMS, Black River. He finished ahead of Top Master Worth ‘Black Panther’ Foster and International Master Courtney ‘Carlos’ Thompson, who had to settle for third and fourth, respectively.

The tournament demonstrated the power of community outreach initiatives in bringing people together and promoting positive engagement.

The St Elizabeth Police Division’s commitment to such programs is a testament to their dedication to serving and building relationships with the community.

“We are thrilled with the success of this tournament and the positive impact it has had on the community. We look forward to continuing our community outreach efforts and making a difference in the lives of our citizens,” said DSP Delattibudiere.

The event has set the stage for future community initiatives, fostering a spirit of friendship and competition that will continue to benefit the community.

Draughts players from around the world, including the Americas and Africa, have lauded the St Elizabeth Police Division’s initiative and have expressed interest in travelling to Jamaica to compete in the next Draughts-64 Community Outreach Open Championships scheduled to be held within the next three to four months.

The winners in their respective categories received cash awards, trophies, medals, and prizes.