Nasiriyah chess marathon draws 80 players, promotes Dhi Qar heritage

NASIRIYAH — Dhi Qar recently hosted a chess marathon in Nasiriyah, bringing together 80 players from inside and outside Iraq in a tournament organizers say promotes both the sport and the governorate’s historic landmarks.

Ali Farhan, director of the Nasiriyah Chess Center, said the event aims to support tourism in Dhi Qar by introducing participants to sites such as the Ziggurat of Ur and the marshes.

“This tournament comes to support tourism and antiquities in Dhi Qar governorate through visiting the Ziggurat of Ur and the marshes,” Farhan said. He added that the tournament is registered with the International Chess Federation, granting international ratings to participants across age groups.

Rasheed Karim, a player from Basra, said: “There are many players with high international progression from all governorates of Iraq and their level is very good. This tournament represents a good starting point to discover talents in this game, as well as support and encourage tourism in Dhi Qar.”

Ali Safaa from Baghdad said: “The tournament is very beautiful and enjoyable, and good players from Iraq and abroad participated. It is an opportunity to develop players’ abilities regardless of the principle of winning and losing.”

Lebanese player Mustafa Ahmed said he came specifically to Dhi Qar for the experience. “The event is very beautiful and includes the participation of 80 players from different governorates of Iraq and international players, which allowed everyone to learn about important experiences related to chess,” he said.

Organizers said the event combined competitive play with efforts to introduce visitors to Dhi Qar’s archaeological and natural heritage.