8 Titled Players Signed up for the Wightlink IOW Chess Congress

We are incredibly fortunate to have such a stellar lineup of chess players gracing the Wightlink Isle of Wight Chess Congress this April. With the generous support of our equipment partners at DGT providing Smart Boards, the entire Open tournament will be available for live viewing on chess.com or for later review, adding an extra layer of excitement for spectators and participants alike.

Leading the ranking is none other than Harry Grieve, the 2022 British Champion and International Master. Grieve boasts an impressive FIDE rating of 2470, showcasing his exceptional skill and expertise on the board.

Among the contenders is the formidable Grandmaster Keith Arkell, the 2021 Online British Champion and multiple title holder. With a FIDE rating of 2371, Arkell is renowned for his strategic prowess and tenacity in competition.

FIDE Master Ronald Bezuidenhout, representing Fareham Chess Club and hailing from the South African Chess Federation, brings his formidable talent to the tournament with an impressive rating of 2273, adding further depth to the field.

Jonathan Pein, a FIDE Master from Wood Green Chess Club, is another contender to watch closely. With a rating of 2235, Pein's tactical acumen and determination make him a formidable opponent on any given day.

FIDE Master Neil Dickenson, now hailing from our very own Isle of Wight, returns to tournament chess after some years and holds an impressive rating of 2295.

From the USA, FIDE Master John Readey is sailing over to join us and is rated 2161. (Sailing from Portsmouth, we hope...)

Women's International Master Natasha Regan adds calibre to the field. Regan, a renowned chess author and commentator, has proudly represented England at two Chess Olympiads, boasting a rating of 1990 and bringing a wealth of experience to the competition.

Hailing from Belgium, Marigje Degrande brings her impressive credentials as the 2021 Women's FIDE World Amateur Chess Champion and holder of three Belgian Women's Championships to the tournament. With a rating of 1947, Degrande is sure to provide fierce competition for her opponents.

As the excitement builds for the upcoming tournament, with only four spots left in the Open and a handful remaining in other sections, there's anticipation that more titled players may join the fray, further elevating the calibre of competition at the Wightlink Isle of Wight Chess Congress.