World Chess Day, celebrated on July 20th, has a special significance this year as it marks the centenary of the International Chess Federation (FIDE). In Bahrain, the game of chess has a long-standing history dating back to the 1940s when the Bahrain Chess Club was established. Initially attracting a small group of enthusiasts, the club gained momentum in 1960 when the Sports Committee of the Bahrain Club invited the Chess Club to participate in matches. Poet Ibrahim Al Arrayed and former minister Yousif Al-Shirawi played crucial roles in training players and developing interest in the game.
The Bahrain Chess Federation was officially established in 1981, with HE Dr Mohammed Ali Al-Khuzai as its head. The visitor base of the club grew and diversified with participants from various nationalities. The recent surge in interest in chess in Bahrain can be attributed to factors such as COVID-19 restrictions leading people to explore mental sports and hobbies, as well as the popularity of the TV series ‘The Queen’s Gambit’. The support of HE Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa and the Ministry of Education in organizing tournaments and training camps has also contributed to the growth of chess locally.
Mohamed Tissir, International Master and Chairman of the Bahrain Chess Academy, highlighted the benefits of chess such as improved mental focus, problem-solving skills, discipline, and courtesy. Despite the progress made in promoting chess in Bahrain, challenges remain, particularly in terms of financial support for coaches, event organization, and the development of a strong national team for international competitions. Tissir emphasized the need for increased media attention and public support to boost the morale of Bahraini players and enhance their performance on the international stage.
Dr Bassem Mohsen, a prominent figure in Bahrain’s chess scene, shared his journey in chess starting from the 1980s. He emphasized the mental benefits of playing chess, viewing it as a break from the pressures of his work as an emergency consultant. Dr Bassem highlighted the importance of balance by complementing mental activities like chess with physical sports activities. He also recalled Bahrain’s achievements in chess during the 1980s, including participation in the World Chess Olympiad for the first time and the success of international chess player Ziad Janahi.
Bahrain is preparing to host the 2024 School Games under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, with participation from 80 countries and a prominent presence of chess. The Kingdom has seen success in chess with Maher Ayyad winning the Olympic gold medal while representing Bahrain in the 2002 World Olympiad. Maliha Al Jamri, a Bahraini chess referee and coach, made history by becoming the first woman in the country to receive international accreditation in chess arbitration, earning the title of International Arbiter (IA) in 2024. These achievements highlight the growing interest and success of chess in Bahrain and the efforts being made to promote the game nationally and internationally.
