Winners at the 2025 Oceania Zonals

An insight into the 2025 Oceania Zonals chess event.

The biannual Oceania Zonals, a nine round event occurred in Oakleigh, Melbourne. The organizers selected a private venue familiar to Golfers. The Huntingdale Golf Club is located on vast acreage, secluded from urban commotion. The weather was generally fair, apart from occasional heat waves or mild tornado occurrences.

Participants from five federations were present at the event, along with a significant representation from the host country. The Open and Women's categories attracted a substantial number of players, each offering distinct prizes and titles.

The event attracted players of various chess skill levels from different age groups, all competing for points to earn FIDE Titles. After each day's rounds, players left the playing hall, showcasing a mix of emotions, including some surprised expressions.

The tournament's highlight is the players were fit and healthy every day with no flu but occasional coughs. With players in good health, most could play every game round except a few no-shows especially in the final rounds.

At the tournament's conclusion after the final 9th round on day 6, sole winners emerged in both the Open and Women's categories without tie-breaks or play offs.

The champion in the open category is Grandmaster Temur Kuyborkarov with 8 points of 9 and the Women's winner is Women Grand Master Julia Ryjanova with 8.5points of 9 games.

Congratulations to both the winners!

The host country winners were stable in their game performance and precision with no significant upsets throughout the competition.