Othello news

The Grand Move-Iran WOC Trials

7 November 2025
Written by Ali Talebi Zadeh

In collaboration with the Mind Sports Committee of the Isfahan General Sports Federation
Dates: Thursday and Friday, 31 July–1 August 2025
Venue: Athletes’ House Hall and the Provincial Leisure Association Hall, Isfahan

In line with promoting mind sports and providing an educational and competitive environment for Othello enthusiasts, the “The Grand Move-Iran WOC Trials” was held in Isfahan with the participation of twenty players from different age groups and genders. Organized by the Mind Sports Committee of the Provincial General Sports Federation and hosted by the Athletes’ House and the Provincial Leisure Association, the event took place over two consecutive days in a healthy, dynamic, and well-organized setting.

Of the total participants, 14 competed in the Open (Adult Men) category, 3 in the Women’s division, and 3 in the Under-14 category. The adult division was held in 7 Swiss rounds, after which the top 8 advanced to the knockout stage. The knockout rounds included quarterfinals, semifinals, and a final match, all played with a 30-minute time limit and in accordance with the official standards of the World Othello Federation (WOF).

More than 50 official matches were played throughout the event, including 28 Swiss-round games, 4 quarterfinals, 2 semifinals, 1 final, as well as matches in the Women’s and Children’s sections.

The Women’s and Children’s divisions were held separately and independently. These divisions, conducted with professional standards and precise refereeing, provided a calm and educational environment for nurturing and identifying talented young players and women interested in Othello.

Refereeing was carried out by judges approved by the Provincial Mind Sports Committee and the Othello Federation. The referees for this event were:

  • Ali Talebi Zadeh (Chief Referee)

  • Saba Ghorbani

  • Samaneh Qhollasi

At the conclusion of the tournament, Danial Pourhamzeh claimed the championship title with a flawless, undefeated performance. Hassan Rostamipour and Reza Shayesteh finished in second and third place, respectively. In the Women’s division, Leila Nasr secured first place, while in the Children’s division, Radvin Hassanshahi was recognized as the top player.

It is worth noting that the top performers of this tournament, based on their technical performance as well as their behavioral and disciplinary conduct, will be considered for nomination to higher-level national and international competitions.

Despite certain logistical limitations, the successful organization of this event—made possible through the cooperation of the hosting venues, the support of the executive committee, the Provincial General Sports Federation, and the dedicated efforts of the referees—resulted in a productive and rewarding experience for both organizers and participants. We express our sincere gratitude to all institutions, colleagues, and enthusiasts who contributed to the successful execution of this tournament.

Final Results

Open Category (Adults):

  1. Danial Pourhamzeh

  2. Hassan Rostamipour

  3. Reza Shayesteh

  4. Seyed Mohsen Hejazi

  5. Mohammadreza Zamanzadeh

  6. Amin Pourhamzeh

Women’s Category:

  • 1st Place: Leila Nasr

Children’s Category:

  • 1st Place: Radvin Hassanshahi

With appreciation,
Ali Talebi Zadeh
Tournament Director – Provincial Othello Open Cup