ST JAMES, Jamaica — Jamaica’s top draughts players displayed exceptional skill and strategy at the Jamaica Draughts & Pool Checkers Open Tournament, held recently at Jarrett Park in Montego Bay.

The event, hosted by the Jamaica Draughts Association (JDA) in collaboration with the Montego Bay Warriors Draughts Club, attracted competitors from across the island under the theme “Settle All Arguments”.

Tournament promoter Mikoyan Robinson, who serves as president of the Montego Bay Warriors Draughts Club and first vice president of the JDA, expressed satisfaction with the strong turnout and high level of competition in the Top Masters Division.

The headline event saw 2024 defending champion Jason Wisdom reclaim his title in a nail-biting finish, edging out International Grandmaster Wayne “Shine” Reid and Jermaine “Tiger” Delattibudiere by just half a point. Reid and Delattibudiere were tied on points, but the Swiss system tie-breaker placed Reid second and Delattibudiere third.

The tournament also featured class two and class three divisions, highlighting emerging talent in the sport. The class two champion was Everette Kavanaugh with 16-year-old Justin Angus, Jamaica’s youngest class two competitor, runner-up. Third was Godfrey Menzie.

In class three, Dexton Hudson won first place, followed by Jason Case and Alexander Rose, who was third.

The JDA emphasised that draughts is more than just a game; it sharpens strategic thinking, problem-solving and mental focus. Studies have shown that playing mentally stimulating games like draughts can reduce the risk of cognitive decline, making it both a competitive and beneficial pastime.

The Jamaica Draughts Association says it remains committed to developing local talent and providing a platform for players to compete at national and international levels.