Jacob wins Adowei scrabble classics

Ryan Jacob from Akwa Ibom state earned his stripes at the Janet Adowei Scrabble Classics where he became the fourth winner of the annual championship in Lagos.
Jacob, who had five wins from seven rounds on Day One, powered to a massive nine straight wins on the board to finish as the overall winner with 14 wins to confirm his first major victory after he defeated Olufemi Gbadebo from Ogun State in Round 17.
He won the cash prize of N500,000.
Jacob showered appreciation on his state for the support in preparing him for the tournament.
“I was surprised by this victory! Firstly, I want to thank God for this success and secondly, my training programme being supported by the Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno.
This tournament wasn’t easy but it was just God’s grace and training that took me through. I also appreciate Engr. Adowei for using the anniversary of his mother to bring players together for a good tournament.”
Cyril Umebiye, Wasiu Hassan and Joseph Okere would finish in second, third and fourth positions respectively as they also earned 300,000, 200,000 and 130,000 naira in the 74-player tournament.
Six other players in the top 10 also received cash prizes.
In other categories, Abiola Oyinloye emerged as the best intermediate player while Emeka Idomele picked the best Open player title.
Adebisi Adekansi played her way to the top as the best female player.
Engr Adowei, who is the immediate past President of the Lekki Scrabble Club, said he was elated and satisfied with the impact the tournament was having on the sport in the country.
“I’m very elated to see my Scrabble friends come around to honour me, I’m very satisfied. This tournament is dedicated to my Mum who supported me in playing the game. I’m very pleased with the number of players who turned up. We decided to make it open so that it can spur many other young talents to get engaged meaningfully and also give them fame both at the national and international levels. I’m happy with the turnout at this edition of JAMSC.”