The Vanuatu Chess Federation is halfway through its Independence Chess Tournament, with Round 6 set to take place today at L’Houstalet French Restaurant in Port Vila.

The competition officially kicked off last Thursday and has so far run five full rounds. It is one of many sports tournaments across the country that have started their knockout phases in celebration of Vanuatu’s 45th Independence Anniversary.

Seventeen players are participating in the tournament across two categories — men and women — with cash prizes of VT30,000 for first place, VT15,000 for second, and VT7,500 for third in both categories.

Vanuatu Chess Federation Secretary, Jeremy Ellison, said the tournament is significant as it marks the Federation’s first full “classic” tournament for the year.

“Classic tournaments are where the time control is extended, meaning a single game can last between two to five hours,” said Ellison. “This is the first time we’ve had this kind of opportunity, and we’re excited about the level of play.”

The tournament venue is L’Houstalet, which Ellison says has provided a much-needed dedicated space for the competition.

In a symbolic opening to the tournament, L’Houstalet owner, Yoshua Shing and the Australian High Commissioner to Vanuatu made the honorary first moves at the start of Round 1.