Roosevelt Chess Classic Results

MORTON –  Beautiful clear skies and scenery of one of Mississippi's best state parks greeted 59 chess players from across Mississippi for the 3rd annual Roosevelt Chess Classic.  

The Classic was held Nov. 4 at Roosevelt State Park where 59 players from Mississippi battled for prizes, improved ratings, and earned bragging rights. This event brought the turnout total to 251 players who have visited Scott County for chess in all combined tournaments.

Champions were crowned at Alfreda-Harris Lodge in three sections over four rounds of action. In addition to individuals, the tournament featured 10 teams that included seven schools sending players to Morton. 

Chris Allen Baker, founder and coordinator of the hosting Scott County Chess Club, said the turnout was potentially higher as there were 63 players pre-registered and one walk-in.

“This tournament was a real joy to host. We had players from across Mississippi. We lost a few players to withdrawals through understandable and extenuating circumstances” Baker said. "It is a sign that Scott County has become a popular destination for chess in our state. I heard many compliments all day from the players who said they were impressed with the venue and the tournament itself.”

Players participated in sections where they are grouped according to their ratings with the U.S. Chess Federation with each round lasting a little more than 45 minutes. 

While only one of the players had local ties, Baker said he hopes this success sets the stage for more players from Scott County to participate in the future.

“I am so excited that so many people from across the state wanted to be a part of what we are doing here. We allowed anyone who wanted to see a tournament like this to come see what it is about, and we did have some spectators,” Baker said. “It would be great to see more local faces around these chess boards. The potential is there.”

The event also saw additional support from the business community which donated funds toward the prizes. 

“We could not do this without the support of our sponsors and partners. We appreciate their contributions and this year added more to the roster,” Baker said. “We appreciate every business who stepped up to help us.”

We were blessed to have 10 teams participate in this year's Roosevelt Classic. All three winning teams were from Franklin County.

Teams were allowed to have as many players as desired, but the top four individual players' scores on each team were counted as that team's score. 

JW and Company won first place and the four representing players included Ellis SmithHart, Jacoree Walker, Timothy Gray, and Jamie Woodard. Each received a medal.

Kayleigh and Company won second place and the four representing players included Kayleigh King, Landon Crum, Ibrahim Elamoun, and Brand Ranches. 

Bee's Best won third place and the four representing players included Makayla Davis, Kay'l Jones, Marcellus Carradine, and Tolbert Perry. 

Other teams included:

Starkville Knights

Asians and Clayton

Guys N Gals

Wu

Nicholas

Northwest Rankin Middle School