Amon Simutowe presenting an interesting lecture in Kingston, Jamaica about his chess beginnings and experiences. Ian Wilkinson (center) was the moderator and Daaim Shabazz had spoken earlier about The Chess Drum and chess psychology. Photo courtesy of Mark Bowen.

IM Amon Simutowe and Dr. Daaim Shabazz traveled to Kingston, Jamaica in what amounts to the building of transcontinental chess linkages within the African Diaspora. The visit has created a steady buzz around the island and the Harold Chan Open saw a sharp increase in entries. Ian Wilkinson, President of the Jamaican Chess Federation played host to both Simutowe and Shabazz who both participated in a number of chess activities during their stay including a chess camp, interviews and lectures.

The tournament was the main draw and the buzz continued leading up to the ceremonial pawn push by Harold Chan. When the last pawn was pushed, the "Zambezi Shark" had won convincingly in a 6-0 wash of the field.  Jamaican National Champion FM Warren Elliott came in clear 2nd with 4½-1½ followed by the three-way tie for 3rd between Malaku Lorne, Shabazz and Markland Douglas on 4-2. Camille Casserly won the women's round robin event with 4-1 while Kevin Lyle and Christopher Buchanan won the amateur section with 5-1.

Posted by The Chess Drum: 28 July 2004