Saint Lucian Inmates Battle it Out in Exciting Cyber Continental Chess Championship

Saint Lucia recently engaged in the inaugural Continental Online Chess Championships for Prisoners, achieving 13th place among 19 nations representing the Americas. Organized by the International Chess Federation (FIDE), the event aimed to offer prisoners valuable intellectual stimulation, rehabilitation, and a pathway to reenter society. This championship is part of FIDE’s broader Chess for Freedom initiative, which promotes competitive chess in correctional facilities.The tournament unfolded with regional competitions across Africa, the Americas, Europe, and Asia, allowing each country to send three teams of four, accompanied by infinite substitutes. Saint Lucia fielded one team, trained by Terence Lindo from the local chess federation. Correctional Officer Stanet Charles emphasized chess's potential as a rehabilitative tool, enhancing critical thinking and emotional well-being. In the Americas, El Salvador excelled, while Zimbabwe and Serbia dominated in other regions. FIDE plans another championship in October 2025.