Abigail Karyah and Georgina Sackie Lead Liberia to Victory Amid Financial Challenges at the Chess Olympiad in Hungary
In a remarkable display of talent and resilience, two Liberian chess players, Abigail Karyah and Georgina Sackie, have emerged as shining stars at the 2024 Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary. Despite facing severe financial constraints that led to the reduction of Liberia’s chess delegation, the duo’s exceptional performances have brought pride to their country, earning them international recognition and prestigious titles.
Abigail Karyah, a high school student, has become a symbol of perseverance. As other players withdrew due to lack of support, Karyah refused to back down. She played not just for her country, but for herself, determined to make a name in the chess world. Her dedication paid off after nine grueling rounds, where she earned her first international title, Women FIDE Master (WFM), the third-highest honor in chess. With her eyes now set on the Grandmaster title, one of the most coveted achievements in the chess world, Karyah’s journey is far from over.
Georgina Sackie also made her mark, participating in her first Chess Olympiad and facing the toughest opponents on the strongest boards. Sackie’s performance was nothing short of outstanding, scoring 5.5/9 and securing the title of Woman Candidate Master (WCM). As Liberia’s newest chess champion, Sackie has proven her ability to compete against the world’s best.
While Karyah and Sackie continue to garner attention for their achievements, Liberia’s men’s team has struggled, with many players reportedly boycotting games due to the lack of financial support from the government. The team, originally set to include 16 players, had its numbers significantly reduced after the government failed to provide adequate funding. This financial strain has affected the team’s overall performance and morale.
Many supporters have voiced frustration with the Liberian government’s inconsistent backing of the national chess team, which has seen little improvement from the administrations of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to Joseph Boakai. Critics argue that if the entire team had been able to compete fully, Liberia could have achieved even greater success at the Olympiad.
Despite these challenges, Liberia’s chess scene remains hopeful, largely due to the inspiring performances of Abigail Karyah and Georgina Sackie. Their achievements serve as a testament to the potential that exists within the country’s chess talent, even in the face of adversity. However, to sustain this success, greater support from the government will be crucial in the future.
As Karyah continues her quest for the Grandmaster title, her journey is a reminder that with the right backing, Liberia’s chess players have the potential to reach the highest levels of the sport.
