Suki King crowned champion

Ronald ‘Suki’ King was crowned champion of the 2024 Henderson Layne Masters Tournament after the 10th and final round concluded on Sunday at Lodge Road, Christ Church.

King secured the title by finishing with 29 points, narrowly defeating his long-standing rival Jack Francis, who ended the tournament with 28 points.

Richard Grazette was third with 24 points, while Jeffrey Clarke finished fourth on 23 points.

The world of Barbadian draughts has been defined by many great players, but few rivalries as the enduring contest between ‘Suki’ King and Francis. Over the years, these two draughts legends have not only brought the game to the forefront of Barbadian sports culture but have also established themselves as icons through their intense battles.

This past weekend, King and Francis rolled back the years, delivering yet another close and thrilling encounter. The tournament saw Anthony Agard, Ryan Eustace, and Henderson Marshall finishing in joint fifth place, each with 22 points. Nathaniel Grosvenor, Junior Walrond, and Winston Lowe rounded out the top 10, all tying for positions 8-10 with 21 points each.

King’s victory in the 2024 Henderson Layne Masters Tournament will go as part of his many titles won at the national level. Known for his strategic thinking, exceptional skills, and ability to outmanoeuvre his opponents, King has consistently demonstrated his dominance in many formats.

His rise to fame includes a multitude of national, regional, and international championships, cementing his reputation as one of the greatest draughts players not only in Barbados but globally.

Francis, a talented draughts player in his own right, has always been a worthy adversary. Renowned for his tactical brilliance and deep understanding of the game, Francis consistently proves to be a formidable opponent.

The Henderson Layne Masters Tournament was yet another stage where King and Francis showcased their dominant skills, treating local draughts enthusiasts to a fiercely competitive showdown. As their rivalry continues to captivate the draughts community, the legacy of ‘Suki’ King and Francis as two of the sport’s greatest players remains firmly intact.

(AS)