African Diaspora at the ’12 Olympiad

WGM Oleiny Linares-Napoles (Cuba)… world’s strongest female of African descent.
Photo by Daaim Shabazz.

The 40th Chess Olympiad in Istanbul, Turkey has been a fortuitous one for both Africa and Caribbean nations. They have garnered a number of upsets which gives one the impression that the gap is not only closing (has closed) between Europe and Asia, but between Europe and the rest of the world. Africa has stepped onto the world stage and people are taking notice of the increase in strength of the players.

Most of the finest players in the Diaspora are on hand here competing in their nations colors and we will take a look at some of the key moments and some intriguing photography. GM Pontus Carlsson, WGM Oleiny Linares-Napoles, IM Robert Gwaze, IM Kenny Solomon are all present. There will be a round-by-round account of the teams with some of the games (playable).