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FIDE Master Cecil Moncur Crowned as the National Chess Champion

THE Bahamas Chess Federation proudly announces FIDE master (FM) Cecil Moncur as the 2025 Bahamas national chess champion.

The prestigious tournament concluded in dramatic fashion on January 26, capping off a thrilling 10-player round-robin competition held at Noble Prep Academy January 17–26.

FM Moncur clinched the title in a nail-biting final round against four-time national champion Valentine Cox. 

Both players entered the ninth and final round tied with seven wins and one loss, knowing the winner of their match would claim the coveted title.

For Cox, a fifth championship would have placed him among the elite ranks of Bahamian chess legends Frank Gibson, Antoinette Seymour and Kendrick Knowles. 

For Moncur, this was an opportunity to solidify his legacy as the Bahamas’ first and only FIDE Master by capturing his first national championship.

The road to victory was anything but easy. Moncur was undefeated in the first three rounds before falling to 2024 champion Avian Pride, whose calculated play dashed Moncur’s flawless streak. 

Undeterred, Moncur regrouped and powered through the remaining rounds, displaying determination and precision to secure his place in the final. 

Meanwhile, Cox delivered six consecutive victories before encountering Women’s Candidate Master (WCM) Chika Pride in Round 7. 

The youngest and only female competitor, Pride stunned the seasoned veteran with a brilliant performance, forcing Cox to resign and leaving the championship wide open.

The tournament was a showcase of chess mastery across generations. 

The five veterans - Cecil Moncur, Valentine Cox, Dr. Kenville Lockhart, Francis Skinned and Curtis Pride Jr. - proved why they remain formidable contenders. 

The rising stars, including Avian and Chika Pride, along with Barrington Hawkins, Sohan Umesh, and James Trotman, demonstrated the depth and promise of Bahamian chess. 

Chess enthusiasts are already lauding this year’s Nationals as one of the most exciting in recent history.

Final Standings and 

Recognition

FM Cecil Moncur emerged victorious with an impressive score of 8/9. Congratulations to all 10 qualifiers who competed with exceptional skill and sportsmanship:

1. FM Cecil Moncur (8/9)

2. NM Valentine Cox (7/9)

3. Dr. Kenville Lockhart (6/9)

4. Avian Pride (6/9)

5. Barrington Hawkins (5/9)

6. WCM Chika Pride (4.5/9)

7. Curtis Pride Jr. (4.5/9)

8. Sohan Umesh (2/9)

9. Francis Skinner (1.5/9)

10. James Trotman (0.5/9)

For full tournament results and standings, visit: https://chess-results.com/tnr1100361.aspx?lan=1.

The Bahamas Chess Federation extends heartfelt thanks to chief arbiter IA Andre White, deputy chief arbiter FA Angel Pride, and tournament director Curtis Pride Sr for their impeccable officiating and organisation.

A special thank you to our sponsors Aquapure, Caribbean Bottling and our host venues Noble Prep Academy and Travellers Rest for their invaluable support. Congratulations to FM Cecil Moncur, the 2025 Bahamas national chess champion. Keep up the good work!

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