As part of the 5th Cēsis Chess Festival, the Dice Chess tournament took place on 20 June in Maija Park, organised by the public benefit organisation „Dice Chess Federation”. This year the tournament drew a record number of participants — 55 players from four countries. It is the largest Dice Chess tournament in Cēsis so far, and the geography of the participants shows that the popularity of this exciting game keeps growing rapidly.

A special highlight of this year’s festival was the giant outdoor chess set, where visitors could not only play a classic game but also try Dice Chess with large colourful dice. In the picturesque Maija Park, any spectator could also become a participant, and the overall feeling was like an anthill — every little ant busy with something: someone playing, someone refereeing, someone keeping an eye on things, someone simply relaxing. This created a pleasant, open and welcoming atmosphere where experienced chess players, beginners and spectators alike could enjoy the thrill of the game under the open sky. To recharge and keep their energy up throughout the tournament, everyone could refuel with tasty sweets.

As always, the tournament was held in a very friendly atmosphere, without any disputes.

The tournament in Cēsis is becoming a lovely tradition, where Dice Chess feels like a fish in water — among helpful people, in a beautiful setting and a warm atmosphere.

Results (after 12 rounds)

Overall

1. Ivans Kolesnikovs — 10 pts
2. Patriks Ivulans — 9 pts
3. Andris Kalve — 9 pts
4. Marius Jacunskas (Lithuania) — 9 pts
5. Daniel Beniosev — 8 pts

Women

1. Madara Golsta — 7 pts
2. Ingrida Lazdina — 7 pts
3. Anastasija Parhomenko — 7 pts

S50/65 group

1. Matiss Mitenieks — 6 pts
2. Viktors Ligotnis — 6 pts
3. Baiba Dzenite — 5 pts

U-18

1. Maksims Ivanisvili — 8 pts
2. Krisjanis Lazars — 8 pts
3. Jaroslavs Orlovskis — 8 pts

Special nominations

• Youngest boy — David Beniosev
• Youngest girl — Agate Ivulane

A big thank you to the organisers of the Cēsis Chess Festival for their cooperation, helpfulness and hospitality.