The Bahamas Junior National Chess Championship 2024, held on November 16th and 17th at the distinguished Queen’s College Q Café, brought together the country’s top under-20 chess players in a highly competitive tournament. This annual event awards the winner the coveted title of Bahamas National Junior Chess Champion.

Avian Pride, the defending 2023 champion, once again emerged victorious, securing the 2024 championship title. Avian achieved a flawless performance, winning all five of his matches. With this victory, Avian currently holds three prestigious national chess titles: Bahamas National Chess Champion 2024, Scholastic Chess Champion 2024, and Bahamas Junior Chess Champion 2024.

Securing second place overall was Woman Candidate Master (WCM) Chika Pride, one of only two female participants in the tournament. Chika delivered an exceptional performance, winning four out of five games, with her only loss to her brother, Avian. In third place, James Trotman displayed impressive skill, securing three victories out of five games. The high level of skill, strategy, and determination displayed by all participants highlighted the bright future of chess in The Bahamas.

 *Chika Pride Defends Title at Bahamas Junior Female Chess Championship 2024*

Earlier in the month, on November 2nd, 2024, the Bahamas Junior Female Chess Championship took place. WCM Chika Pride successfully defended her title as Junior National Female Chess Champion, securing her reign for another year. Finishing in 2nd place was Kaaliyah Cooper, followed by Danica Rolle in 3rd place, both of whom demonstrated remarkable potential and skill.

The Bahamas Chess Federation extends heartfelt gratitude to Queen’s College for hosting these events at the Q Café and providing a fitting venue for such prestigious tournaments. We also commend our arbiters FA Elton Joseph, FA Angel Pride, and Curtis Pride Jr, for their dedication and excellent management, ensuring the smooth operation of both events.