Asian Amateur Open / Women - Update

18 November 2011, Kuala Lumpur – Here is the update from the organisers of the Asian Amateur Open and Women Chess Championship to be held next Friday, 25 November 2011 – 1 December 2011.

With one more week to go before the start of the ASIAN AMATEUR OPEN and WOMEN CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP 2011, the list of players now stands at 97 with a few more players confirming their entries within the last few days. Aside from Malaysia with more than 60 players participating in the Championship, UAE has the second biggest contingent with 15 players and Singapore came in next with 10 players. Nepal will also be sending 4 players and Brunei with 2 players. Other countries which have confirmed entries are India, Philippines and Indonesia. The organizer is still waiting for further confirmation from Australia and Sri Lanka.

Whilst the extended closing date for the event has already passed, and the target number of participants has already been reached, the organizer will continue to welcome late entries for the event to allow for more players - local or otherwise, to participate on a continental platform rarely hosted by Malaysia. This international event will definitely allow the chance for local players, mostly with average strength, to shine on a higher level playing field and successful outing in this championship can definitely invite further improvement to our hidden talents.

The organizer is confident that the number of entries will continue to pour in especially from the international community as players began to clear their travelling arrangements, visas and leaves. There are also rumors that some effort are being made to subsidize entries for aspiring young junior players to offer them the opportunity to experience playing in an international event.

The latest listing with rating points and countries are as follows. Be on the lookout for more regular updates in the days to come as we approach closer to the opening day.