Ulaanbaatar, April 25, 2025 /MONTSAME/. The inaugural “Nuudel-999” Chess Tournament took place on April 24, 2025, at Sukhbaatar Square, aiming at promoting the sport of chess, improving players’ skills, and introducing the importance of sports to children and youth.

Jointly organized by the Governor’s Office of the Capital City of Mongolia and the Mongolian Chess Federation, the Tournament was divided into eight categories based on age and rating: ages 7–8, 9–10, 11–12, 13–14, 15–16, and adults are grouped into Class “A” with rating above 2100, Class “B” with rating 1700–2099, and Class “C” with rating below 1699.

The Tournament had a prize fund of 40 million MNT. The winner of Class “A” received MNT 2 million, while the second and third place winners received MNT 1.5 million and MNT 1 million. In line with the tradition of awarding the top five players in chess tournaments, fourth and fifth places each received MNT 500,000. Winners in Class “B” and “C” were awarded MNT 1.5 million, and the winners of each children’s age category were awarded MNT 300,000.

Governor of the Capital City Nyambaatar Khishgee stated, “Today, Mongolians are being recognized globally in the field of intellectual sports. This Tournament involving 999 chess players is yet another demonstration of our ability to compete at the global level. Chess has been a traditional game for Mongolians since ancient times and is invaluable in nurturing today’s youth to become thoughtful and analytical. Let us all engage in chess to expand our intellectual horizons. In early May 2025, Ulaanbaatar will host a bicycle parade. The ‘Ulaanbaatar Marathon’ International Race will be held on May 24, 2025. Additionally, based on a Government Resolution, the annual Citizens’ Day celebration will be organized on June 27–28, 2025, at the Central Stadium. We are committed to improving and enhancing these events.”

Chief of Staff to the President of Mongolia and the President of the Mongolian Chess Federation Zandanshatar Gombojav noted, “The Asian Zonal 3.3 Chess Championship is currently taking place, where competitors range from 7-year-old children to 70-year-old seniors. Simultaneously, an open Tournament involving 999 participants is underway at Sukhbaatar Square. Chess is inseparably linked with nomadic culture and Mongolian civilization. Therefore, I encourage everyone to take up chess. In this era of artificial intelligence and technological advancement, the value of chess continues to grow. May your moves be wise and your strategies sharp. I believe this will be a tournament full of brilliant play.”

Over 1,000 chess players competed in the first “Nuudel-999” Chess Tournament. In Class “A,” more than 20 players, including Grandmasters T. Munkhzul, G. Munkhgal, B. Khatanbaatar, and FIDE Master M. Gunbayar, participated. They each played nine rounds to determine the champion. In Class “B,” over 104 players, including International Master U. Lkhamsuren, State Honored Coaches, and International Masters Ts. Jigjidsuren and FIDE Master J. Lkhagva played 13 rounds. Players in Class “C” and the children's age groups also played 13 rounds. The Tournament concluded on April 24, 2025.