The Stepan Avagyan Memorial has Kicked Off in Jermuk

The Stepan Avagyan Memorial Tournament Has Started in Jermuk

On May 28, the official opening ceremony of the Stepan Avagyan Memorial Tournament took place at the “Jermuk Ashkharh” Health Resort Complex. Once again, this prestigious international tournament has brought together some of the world’s strongest chess players and chess enthusiasts in Jermuk.

Among those attending the opening ceremony were the founder and CEO of the Chess Academy of Armenia, International Grandmaster Smbat Lputian, Stepan Avagyan’s son Karen Avagyan, members of the Avagyan family, honored guests, tournament participants, and representatives of the Jermuk community.

Smbat Lputian delivered a welcoming speech, congratulating everyone on the start of the tournament. He warmly welcomed the participating grandmasters arriving from Armenia, Germany, India, Poland, and Russia, and expressed gratitude to the tournament’s main sponsor, the “Jermuk Ashkharh” Health Resort Complex, as well as sponsor Lydian Armenia for supporting the organization of the tournament.

Karen Avagyan also addressed the participants and guests with welcoming remarks.

During the opening ceremony, guests enjoyed a musical and cultural program. Renowned opera performances were presented by Lusine Arakelyan and Hayk Vardanyan, along with a dance performance.

One of the most important moments of the ceremony was the screening of a film dedicated to the memory of Stepan Avagyan, highlighting his activities and contribution to the development of Armenian chess and the city of Jermuk.

In the coming days, Jermuk will become a center of world chess, filled with intense competition, brilliant ideas, and memorable games.

Welcome to the Stepan Avagyan Memorial Tournament.