The islands’ biggest chess event – the Malta International Open – is set to start on Sunday with 250 players from 40 countries.

No fewer than 220 of those taking part will be travelling to Malta specifically for the seven-day championships to be played at the Imperial Hotel, Sliema.

Some will be coming from as far as the United States, India and Mongolia.

Included in the entry list are six Grand Masters and seven International Masters who will be vying for the €4,500 prize-fund. Amateurs can also seek glory as there are prizes at stake in all categories.

Organised by Clarence Psaila, in conjunction with Chessorg.de, the Malta International Open has grown steadily along the years, both in numbers and recognition locally and abroad.

In fact, this year’s Open was fully booked a month in advance.

The Open has also attracted the attention of famous London chess shop – Chess and Bridge. They decided to offer each participant a free chess magazine from their subscription listed items.

And the tournament has also caught the eye locally as Russian-owned Tel’in Art Gallery, located in Ta’ Xbiex, will be exhibiting artwork during the tournament.

There will be coverage of the competition on international websites and chess portals in Germany, Sweden, England, Italy and Malta.

The event is made possible due to the financial support of the Malta Tourism Authority and Marion Mizzi Wellbeing.