Durga Motors Rapid Rated Chess Tournament–2026 Concludes Successfully.
Cujira , Bambolim: The Durga Motors Rapid Rated Chess Tournament–2026, organised by the Rotary Charitable Trust of Porvorim in association with the Tiswadi Taluka Chess Association and the Goa Chess Association, concluded successfully after a keenly contested two-day event held at Dr. K. B. Hedgewar High School.
The tournament witnessed a massive participation of 260 players, making it one of the largest rapid-rated chess events held in Goa. A total cash prize fund of ₹2,50,000 was distributed among the winners and category prize recipients.
International Master Nitish Belurkar emerged as the champion, scoring an impressive 8.5 points and remaining undefeated throughout the 9-round tournament. The second position was secured by Candidate Master Niraj Saripalli, who scored 8 points and finished ahead on superior tie-break scores. International Master Ritviz Parab claimed the third place with 8 points.
The top 20 finishers of the tournament were:
IM Nitish Belurkar, CM Niraj Saripalli, IM Ritviz Parab, Lad Mandar Pradip, Katkar Atharv, Shubh Vishnu Borkar, Rejmon Gavin Fernandes, Shayakberov Anar, Shreyas Ghadi, Parab Rishikesh, Joshua Mark Telles, AFM Vasant Vishnu Naik, Shirodker Arthav, Aaryavrat Rasiket Naik Desai, Tejas R. Shet Verenkar, Kanishk Sagar Sawant, Nadar Thangraj, Phal Satyam, Raposo Maxwell and Kambli Datta.
Apart from the main prizes, the tournament featured category prizes in Under-7, Under-9, Under-11, Under-13 and Under-15, separately for boys and girls. Veteran players above 45 years of age were also felicitated. Additionally, cash prizes were awarded to the best five unrated players, encouraging upcoming chess talent.
The prize distribution ceremony was graced by Mr. Prateek Sapra, Owner of Durga Motors and title sponsor of the event, along with Dr. Pramod Dubale, co-sponsor. Other dignitaries present included Rtn. Harsh Thakkar, President, Rotary Club of Porvorim, and Mr. Ashesh Keni, Secretary, Goa State Chess Association. The tournament was smoothly conducted under the guidance of Chief Arbiter Umesh S. Naik.
Addressing the gathering, Rtn. Harsh Thakkar expressed his heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, organisers, arbiters, volunteers, players, parents and supporting institutions for their valuable contributions towards the successful conduct of the tournament. He reiterated that the Rotary Club of Porvorim organises this event every year with the objective of spreading and promoting the game of chess across Goa.
The Rotary Charitable Trust of Porvorim has been actively working for the past 28 years in the fields of education, women’s health and support for cancer patients, continuing its strong commitment to social service through sports and community initiatives.
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