Blitz Chess Champions Unveiled After Electrifying Rounds -As Top Five Players Secure Spots At Pending GA

By S. Siapha Mulbah
The Liberia Chess Federation (LCF) has crowned a new Blitz Chess Champion after 11 thrilling rounds of high-speed action at the 2024 National Blitz Chess Championship. The competition, which brought together 27 of Liberia’s most active and returning chess players, concluded with reigning national champion Leroy Debblay adding another prestigious title to his growing legacy.
Held at the LCF headquarters in Sinkor, the tournament was played under a time control of five minutes plus a three-second increment per move which is an intense format that demands both sharp tactics and lightning-fast decision-making. The championship drew participants from various categories of chess, some rejoining competitive play after periods of inactivity, all vying for national recognition.
Leroy Debblay once again demonstrated his dominance on the chessboard by finishing in first place with an unmatched score of nine points from eleven games. His consistency and composure under pressure earned him the title of Liberia’s 2024 Blitz Chess Champion. This marks his second national title in the ongoing championship cycle and solidifies his reputation as a top force in the local chess scene.
In a dramatic finale, Debblay faced off against former national champion Bobby Ballah on Board One, where all eyes were glued. Ballah had taken an early lead in the standings and was widely favored heading into the final round. However, Debblay’s tenacity and preparation shone through, as he outmaneuvered Ballah in a crucial game that ultimately decided the championship. With that win, Debblay claimed the top spot and pushed Ballah into second place.
Ballah concluded the event with 8.5 points classified in eight wins, one draw, and two losses. Despite falling short in the final round, his performance remained commendable and kept him firmly among Liberia’s elite players.
Candidate Master (CM) John Jallah also delivered a strong showing, earning eight points and placing third overall. His solid play throughout the tournament ensured he remained in the prize bracket and on the radar for future national and international competitions.
The final two players rounding out the top five were Kennedy Kengo and Joe Wawoe. These five individuals namely Debblay, Ballah, Jallah, Kengo, and Wawoe have been formally recognized by the LCF and awarded reserved seats at the Federation’s upcoming General Assembly, slated for May 10–11, 2025.
LCF President Thomas Karyah confirmed the selections, stating that the Federation’s constitution, in line with FIDE statutes, grants top-performing players in recognized blitz competitions the privilege to participate in the body’s highest decision-making forum. “This is a way of honoring their dedication and excellence while also involving them in shaping the future of chess in Liberia,” Karyah said.
Karyah also extended appreciation to all players and members of the chess community who turned out for the event. He emphasized the importance of ongoing participation in LCF’s activities, especially as the Federation builds momentum toward the 2024 National Individual Classical Chess Championship.
In another significant development, the LCF on Saturday, April 26, launched the Women’s Qualifiers event aimed at increasing female participation in competitive chess. The initiative is part of a broader effort to foster inclusivity and expand opportunities for women within the sport.
As the chess calendar progresses, the Liberia Chess Federation is urging all stakeholders including players, coaches, and supporters alike to continue contributing to the growth of chess in the country. With new champions emerging and stronger structures being built, Liberia’s chess community is showing signs of vibrancy and promise.