Jamaica delivers at US pool checkers championship

Jamaica's draughts players showcased their exceptional talent and competitive spirit at the recent American Pool Checkers Association (APCA) Annual Tournament held in Memphis, Tennessee. The delegation representing the Jamaica Draughts Association (JDA) delivered an outstanding international campaign, capturing three major trophies and achieving historic individual milestones.

Competing against 68 of the world's top pool checkers, the JDA strategically focused its resources on the tournament's highest divisions: Top Masters and Masters. This approach proved highly effective. International Grandmaster (IGM) Wayne ‘Shine’ Reid delivered another elite performance, securing second place overall after drawing against both the eventual champion, IGM Crispin Ojwang, and the formidable 17-time APCA champion, GM Alfred ‘East Point’ Barnett.

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Grandmaster Barnett donated two classical draughts boards to the JDA while commending the association’s progress and long-term vision.

Deputy Superintendent Jermaine Delattibudiere, who also serves as president of the JDA, made history by defeating GM Alfred ‘East Point’ Barnett. This victory marked the first time a Jamaican player had beaten the renowned American champion in competition. Delattibudiere's win propelled him to a career-best fourth-place finish, a significant improvement from his previous three consecutive sixth-place rankings (2023-2025).

Further demonstrating Jamaica's growing strength in the sport, Ricardo Roach narrowly missed the Masters title, earning a commendable second-place trophy. Following the tournament, Grandmaster Barnett generously donated two classical draughts boards to the JDA, acknowledging the association's progress and long-term vision. APCA President Albert Harrison lauded the JDA executive for their leadership and collaboration, calling the association a key partner in delivering one of the most competitive APCA championships in recent memory.

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APCA President Albert Harrison praised the JDA executive for their leadership, communication, and collaboration, describing the association as an important partner in delivering one of the most competitive APCA championships in recent memory.