The Chess Heights Ekiti July edition delivered another thrilling spectacle of competitive chess as 15 of the state’s best players clashed across seven rounds. But once again, the final headline was familiar: Alex Ayomide reigned supreme, claiming first place with 6.5/7 and extending his incredible winning streak to seven consecutive months—having won every edition since January.
With a near-flawless performance, Ayomide proved once more why he is the undisputed king of Chess Heights Ekiti.
Final Standings – Top 4
- Alex Ayomide 6.5/7
- Adebayo Malik 5/7
- Okeleye Andrew 5/7
- Ajayi Iretomiwa 5/7
“No pressure, just showing up to play”— An Exclusive Interview with Alex Ayomide
In this month’s winner’s spotlight, we sat down with Alex Ayomide to talk about his streak, preparation, competition, and the growing Ekiti chess scene.
1. You’ve won multiple Chess Heights Ekiti editions—was there ever a moment you felt the streak might break? How did you handle it?
Honestly, every edition I won was just more about me showing up to play chess rather than trying to complete a streak. No pressure really.
2. Do you believe winning is more about preparation, mindset, or raw talent? Which of these gives you your edge?
While all of these can’t be underplayed, they work hand in hand to get results. But for me, preparation is the key.
3. In your view, what separates a good player from a tournament-winning player at events like Chess Heights?
Maybe experience in this case, and level of preparation.
4. Many spectators focus on the final results—what’s something behind the scenes about your journey that people don’t see?
Surprisingly, people don’t see the amount of preparation and study that goes into it. Even when I was inactive, I still did some work. I think most people miss that.
5. Was there a particular opponent or game during any of your Ekiti wins that made you dig the deepest?
Every chess game is difficult. You always have to dig deep to win at Chess Heights. Kudos to my opponents.
6. Some players avoid pressure—others thrive in it. How does pressure affect your play during title-deciding rounds?
Experience helps a lot. It’s part of the learning process. Being able to handle pressure is a characteristic of a winner.
7. What’s one unconventional thing you do that helps your chess—during prep, travel, or games?
Surprisingly, it’s taking time away from the game itself. Just clearing your head for a bit helps a lot.
8. Have you ever felt underestimated at the board? How do you use that in your favor?Definitely.
You can feel it sometimes. But I just focus on the game rather than what’s not important.
9. How do you think the competition in Ekiti compares to other tournaments you’ve played in?
Honestly, chess in Ekiti has developed well recently, which I’m proud of—thanks to the state chess chairman and executives. It’s still developing, but improving.
10. What role has Chess Heights played in shaping your chess identity and confidence?
It has played a huge role—especially with a serious streak going. It builds confidence.
11. When you’re not playing or studying chess, what’s a surprising hobby or interest that keeps you grounded?
That would be sports. I love following and playing basketball, tennis… sports in general.
12. Let’s imagine five years from now—what headline would you love to see written about your chess journey?
I don’t know honestly. I’ll let the future decide that.
13. If there’s one thing you’d like to see changed or improved about Chess Heights or chess in Ekiti, what would that be?
As I said earlier, the stakeholders are putting in their best efforts. It’s a gradual process, and kudos to them.
Looking Ahead
With seven straight titles in hand, Alex Ayomide has turned consistency into a trademark—his reign has brought both inspiration and a rising competitive bar to Ekiti chess.
But as August approaches, one question remains:
Can anyone stop him?
We’ll find out next month. Until then, stay tuned for more coverage
Pictures Below
