World Backgammon Federation VP Wins Jamaican International Tournament

Former Two-Time World Champion Joe Russell secures the title at the Backgammon tournament. Businessman Joe Issa, who hosted the event, remarked, “I built this building here at Bamboo Blu Beach just to host this tournament.”

World Backgammon Federation VP Joe Russell

Joe Russell, Vice President of the World Backgammon Federation and a two-time former world champion, claimed victory at the Jamaican International Tournament on Sunday, defeating Avi Cohen to secure the title. He walked away with a monetary prize and a trophy. The tournament took place at Bamboo Blu Beach in Mammee Bay, St. Ann.

The 5th Annual Jamaica International Backgammon Tournament brought together 41 players, including 33 international competitors and two former world champions, making it one of the most competitive stagings to date.

The event, which runs from August 21–24, is sponsored by the Tourism Enhancement Fund, whose support provided brand-new backgammon boards for the competition. Additional sponsors include Wisynco, RIU Hotels, and Coldwell Banker Jamaica Realty.

Jamaican businessman Joe Issa

Custos of St. Ann, businessman, and avid backgammon player Joe Issa hosted the tournament. “I built this building here at Bamboo Blu Beach just to host this tournament,” he said, noting that he personally manages the logistics and organization. He also ensured accommodations for disabled players, such as a ramp that allowed New York’s Antoinette Williams to access the venue with her motor scooter wheelchair.