Published: February 27, 2026
By Thomas Kojo Roulhac
MONROVIA — The 2025 Liberia Individual National Chess Championship in Sinkor has produced two familiar names at the top of the leaderboard, as David Leroy Debblay reclaimed the men’s crown and Georgiana Sackie extended her dominance in the women’s session with a third straight title.
Debblay’s Redemption Run
Debblay’s victory was a story of resilience and determination. After losing the 2024 championship to Bobby Ballah, the youngster returned to the board with renewed focus. His performance was commanding: eight wins, one draw, and a final score of 8.5 out of 9.
The triumph marked his second national title in three years, cementing his reputation as Liberia’s best chess player for 2025.
Debblay first rose to prominence in 2023 when he captured his maiden national crown, and his latest victory signals a strong comeback that has reignited hopes for Liberia’s international prospects.
With the win, Debblay will lead Team Liberia at the 2026 World Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, scheduled for Sept. 15–28. His leadership is expected to be pivotal as the country seeks to improve on past performances at the global stage.
Sackie’s Perfect Streak
In the women’s section, Sackie delivered a flawless campaign, winning all seven of her games to secure her third consecutive national championship. Her dominance has become a hallmark of Liberian chess, and her perfect record this year underscores her growing stature in the sport.
Her victory came in the absence of Abigail Karyah, Liberia’s most decorated female chess player, whose decision not to compete surprised the chess community. Karyah has participated in more than five previous national tournaments, and her unexplained non-participation left many speculating. Sackie, however, seized the opportunity to showcase her consistency and skill, further solidifying her place as the face of women’s chess in Liberia.
Road to the Olympiad
The championship, which will conclude in March, will also determine the top five players in both divisions who will represent Liberia at the 46th World Chess Olympiad later this year. For the federation, the tournament is not only about crowning champions but also about building a competitive national team.
Acting federation president Gonkartee Dekpah emphasized the importance of early preparation. “I pray we will have a better tournament in September and make a mark on the international stage than past events,” Dekpah told the Liberian Investigator in an interview a few weeks ago. He noted that naming Team Liberia early gives players the time and structure needed to train for the Olympiad.
A Growing Legacy
Since its debut in 2016, the Liberia National Chess Tournament has grown into the federation’s signature event. Initially staged at the federation’s former headquarters on Front Street, the inaugural edition drew more than 30 participants. FM Barcon Harmon won the men’s title, CM Anthony Waylea finished runner-up, Widor Tarpeh claimed the women’s crown, and Siatta Gray placed second in the women’s section.
Over the years, the tournament has expanded to include multiple formats: classical, rapid, blitz and club competitions. Organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports and supported by sponsors and partners, the event is recognized by the African Confederation of Chess and the International Chess Federation. Winners of the open and women’s sections automatically qualify for continental and international events the following year, ensuring Liberia’s presence on the global chess calendar.
For Debblay, the championship is a chance to reclaim his crown and prove his resilience. For Sackie, it is another flawless chapter in an already remarkable career. Together, their victories highlight the strength of Liberia’s emerging chess generation.
As the Liberia Chess Federation prepares for the Olympiad, the spotlight will remain on these two champions — one returning to glory, the other extending her reign. Their success stories reflect not only personal triumphs but also the growing ambition of Liberian chess to make its mark on the world stage.
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