FIJI’S official under-20 chess team left Nadi International Airport this morning for Brisbane, Australia, to compete in the 2025 Oceania Youth Zonal Chess Championship, running from December 13-17.
The six-player squad will face a strong field of 360 entrants from across Oceania in what is one of the largest and most competitive junior chess events in the region.
The Fijian team is, Lionel Vaurasi (13) – U14 Open Division, Latileta Masau (14) – U14 Girls Division, Praveer Singh (17) – U18 Open Division, Randev Singh (17) – U18 Open Division, Tanvi Prasad (18) – U20 Girls Division, Rudr Prasad (20) – U20 Open Division, Kristy Fong travels with the team as Manager and Chaperone.
In recent weeks the players have undergone intensive final training under CM Manoj Kumar, Fiji’s current National Chess Champion, with sessions focused on opening preparation, tactical sharpness, and endgame precision.
The team was presented with their official uniforms on Saturday, December 6, at the Aquatic Centre Conference Room in Suva.
Team Manager Kristy Fong expressed deep appreciation to all supporters, especially Menon Construction Limited, the major sponsor whose backing has been crucial to the tour. Significant contributions also came from the Bank of the South Pacific and Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre.
Additional sponsors include Eagle Cleaning Ltd, Wood Engineers Ltd, The Sunfryer Ltd, Ezytech Computers (Fiji), and individuals Senimili Kamikamica, Natasha Williams and Boraine Nansen. The team uniforms were proudly sponsored by Verson Tavana.
“With 360 of the best young players from Oceania converging in Brisbane, this is a huge opportunity for our team,” Fong said.
“Thanks to Menon Construction Limited and our wonderful sponsors, and with CM Manoj Kumar’s expert coaching, our players are well prepared and excited to represent Fiji.”
The Fiji Chess Federation and the wider chess community wish the team safe travels and every success as they represent the nation on the international stage.
