Chennai : Tamilnadu Chief Minister MK Stalin launched the official logo for the historic 44th edition of the Chess Olympiad, to be held in Mahabalipuram near Chennai from July 28 to August 10.

As the country is all set to host the world’s biggest chess event for the first-time ever in 100-year history of the Olympiad, a vibrant logo, expressing the excitement with its exuberant colors, was unveiled in Chennai as All India Chess Federation’s President Sanjay Kapoor and Secretary as well as Olympiad Director Bharat Singh Chauhan alongside other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

It’s been a great journey so far, right from reaching out to FIDE [International Chess Federation] for the hosting rights.

This tournament is a moment of pride for India. On behalf of AICF, I thank the honourable Chief Minister.

The Tamil Nadu Government has been supportive during the preparations,” AICF Secretary and Olympiad Director Chauhan said at the launch while talking to the media.

With less than 50 days remaining for the upcoming edition of the Chess Olympiad, AICF officials have been working round the clock to ensure a smooth conduct of this prestigious event.

We want to set this Olympiad as a milestone for other sporting events in India. This Olympiad is going to not only script history but also inspire generations. I’m confident that our team at AICF will leave no stone unturned in making this event a huge success, AICF President Kapoor added.

FIDE has earlier announced the introduction of the Olympiad Torch Relay from this year’s event, celebrating the popularity of the game in India, the land chess originated from.

A record 343 teams in open and women’s sections from 187 countries across the globe have registered so far for the 44th Chess Olympiad, which will see India’s two teams each participating in open as well as women’s section.