THE BCF'S PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

   Being a chess player during my school years at Government High School and a Co-National Chess Champion in 1994, I like other members of the newly elected Executive, have a desire to see Chess develop and expand in The Bahamas.

  During the first three (3) months of my Presidency, we have focused on increasing the profile of Chess.  To that end the following has been achieved:

1.      Provide media houses on a timely basis with tournament results and summaries;

2.      Utilize non-traditional avenues of promoting Chess.

   We have focused on providing information to radio and television stations.  In doing so, we have noticed that some media houses seem to be more “chess friendly” than others.  We intend to nurture and develop these budding relationships.  Our efforts resulted in media coverage of the Winter Classic held in January 2006 and excellent media coverage of the Individual Scholastic Chess Championship and the official visit of the Continental President of the Americas, Mr. Jorge Vega and the Co-chairman of CACDEC, Mr. Allan Herbert.  We are grateful of the coverage given to our events.

   On another note, we have extended our plan to incorporate non-traditional venues for chess play.  In February, 2006 we organized and hosted the Scholastic Chess Exhibition in the Mall at Marathon’s Centre Court.  Two of the most prominent Chess players in The Bahamas hosted a chess simultaneous.  The event was a major success attracting numerous school age players and senior players alike.

   Our approach and accomplishments in heightening the profile of Chess has brought Chess out of the “shadows” once again.  It is our intention to ensure that it remains in full view of the General Public.

   As I close, all members are reminded that the format of the Nationals has been changed.  The Nationals is once again a round robbin tournament.

Regards,

Kean Alfred Smith