Le Quang Liem.— Photo danviet

HA NOI (VNS)— The title race has opened up for second-tier players at the 2013 National Best Chess Players Championships, with the top players unable to participate for various reasons.

In the men's division, GM Le Quang Liem is pursuing his studies in the US, while GM Nguyen Ngoc Truong Son and GM Nguyen Duc Hoa are busy preparing for the upcoming Southeast Asian Games.

Top women players Pham Le Thao Nguyen and Nguyen Thi Mai Hung are busy training in Hungary.

The championship has got a lift with world U10 champion Nguyen Anh Khoi, seeded 13 in the male's division, expected to challenge veteran players like GM Dao Thien Hai, GM Cao Sang and IM Nguyen Van Huy in the title race.

A total of 41 players from 12 provinces and cities nation-wide are competing in the championships, which kicks off today and closes next Tuesday. — VNS