The 1st Tigerhead Rapid Open Chess Tournament made history on November 9, 2025, as 129 players competed in what became the largest local chess event ever held in Laos. Organized and sponsored by Tigerhead, in cooperation with the Laos Chess Federation, the event marked a significant milestone in the nation’s chess development — truly a historic day for Lao chess.
In above photo Mr. Vilavane Inthava, President of the Laos Chess Federation and Tournament Director, together with Mr. Robert Suelo Jr., Chief Arbiter and Event Manager, open the 1st Tigerhead Rapid Open Chess Tournament
Held at the National Olympic Committee of Laos, the tournament featured Rapid games with a time control of 10 minutes per player, testing each competitor’s speed, precision, and strategic thinking. The event brought together young talents, experienced players, and enthusiasts from across the country, reflecting the growing enthusiasm and rising standard of chess in Laos.
After seven thrilling rounds of rapid play, Vilaphen Bounled (photo above) and Yomvilath Souminta both scored 6½ points, but Vilaphen claimed the Champion’s title on superior tiebreak. He earned ₭1,000,000 and a trophy, while Yomvilath (photo below) secured 1st Runner-up with ₭700,000 and a trophy.
Following them were:
• Vilaphen Phakthong – 2nd Runner-up, ₭500,000 + Trophy
• Phongphachit Sommith – 3rd Runner-up, ₭300,000 + Trophy
• Parkin Dylan Alastair – 4th Runner-up, ₭200,000 + Trophy
Special category awards were also presented:
• Best Lady: Ryzia Lei Zheysha Suelo (photo below) – ₭200,000 + Trophy
• Best >50: Fourile Violaine – ₭200,000 + Trophy
Age-group champions were recognized with trophies for their outstanding performances:
• Best U16: Kongeo Phithak and Manalo Sean Michael
• Best U14: Inthavong Bounthanh and Manichith Namphét
• Best U12: Phanouvong Marvin and Liemphrachanh Akkhravin
• Best U10: Maglacion Psalm Emmanuel Paul and Yaotita Yoshito
• Best U8: Sengphachan Bounthingtham Jayson and Chong Jun Yin Hector
The tournament atmosphere was filled with excitement, camaraderie, and sportsmanship — a strong testament to the fast-growing chess movement in Laos. This event not only celebrated competitive excellence but also served as a platform to inspire the younger generation of Lao chess players.
The organizers expressed heartfelt thanks to Tigerhead, the main driving force behind the event, for its generous support, and to the Laos Chess Federation for its continued efforts to promote chess nationwide.
The Tournament Director was Mr. Vilavane Inthava, President of the Laos Chess Federation assisted by Chief Arbiter & Event Manager Mr. Robert Suelo Jr.-Marlon Bernardino-