(L'article ci-dessous est également traduit en français, cliquez ici.)
As the editorial team of Damkunst, it is our pleasure to share beautiful stories, analyses, and achievements with you. However, at times, we must also pause to reflect on less joyful moments, such as the sudden passing of Senegalese grandmaster Ndiaga Samb. Fortunately, in writing this in memoriam, we received support from two prominent African figures in the draughts world: Jean-Marc Ndjofang and Bassirou Ba. Both have contributed a piece—one describing the circumstances of Samb’s passing and the other briefly reflecting on his remarkable career. For Samb was a remarkable figure in the world of draughts, one we cannot simply overlook as a footnote in some book. From his first (known) appearance abroad (Brunssum 1991) to his last (African Championship 2024), he consistently delivered impressive results. He had qualified for the upcoming World Championship on African soil, where he will be missed...
Ndiaga Samb is no more!
Author: Bassirou Ba
The most famous—and perhaps the most talented—Grandmaster International (GMI) in the history of Senegalese draughts has passed away suddenly during the speech and awards ceremony of the first Elite Tournament, sponsored by chartered accountant Mamadou Tamsir Barry, on Wednesday, the 19th of February of this year. The tragic event took place at the Pikine-Nord town hall, near the Domingue Hospital, where the death of the draughts player from Rufisque was officially confirmed shortly after he collapsed during the ceremony. It was a strange and, in some ways, almost premonitory moment. Some might even compare it to the image of a great religious figure on the Mount of Olives. Never before, in the memory of draughts enthusiasts, had Samb been seen in such a state—so expressive, and almost talkative. After the final round of the Elite Tournament, where he finished third behind winner Ibrahima Gaye and runner-up Demba Coly Thiam from Saint-Louis, Samb spoke in post-game interviews and during the ceremony. His words were unifying, bringing people together, and filled with gratitude for the tournament sponsor, Tamsir Barry. His speech had the tone of a farewell to a world that had always been his. After finishing his remarks, Samb took a seat in the front row, facing the presidium, alongside the eight finalists of this prestigious tournament. But suddenly, as the speeches continued and the moment approached for the prize envelopes to be awarded, Samb collapsed from his chair—never to rise again. Despite immediate efforts to revive the grandmaster from Rufisque, there were no signs of life. His lifeless body was then transported in Tamsir Barry’s car to the nearest medical centre, the Dominique Mendy Hospital, right next to the Pikine-Nord town hall where the tragic event had just occurred. It was at this hospital that the death of the Senegalese legend was officially confirmed by an attending doctor. At the age of 58, Ndiaga Samb bids farewell to the Senegalese draughts world, which he had always served and loved with passion. The body will be laid to rest at the Dangou cemetery in Rufisque, his hometown.
GMI Ndiaga Samb: A Giant of Senegalese and African Draughts
Author: Jean-Marc Ndjofang
The Senegalese, African, and global draughts community is mourning the loss of one of its most illustrious champions, Ndiaga Samb. His passing, which occurred in the midst of a sporting celebration, symbolizes a life entirely devoted to his art—until the very last moment. His legacy, etched into the history of draughts, will remain a source of inspiration for future generations. Samb was more than just a player—he was a monument. His achievements reflect a brilliant career and rare consistency: seven-time Senegalese champion, asserting his national dominance. African individual champion (2016) and runner-up three times (1992, 2006, 2018), with multiple podium finishes (3rd place in 2003, 2009; 4th in 2012, etc.). Twice a World Team Championship runner-up (Italy 2006, Turkey 2022 in blitz and rapid). Fifth place in the 2005 World Championship in Amsterdam—an outstanding feat for an African player. Samb carried the flag of Senegal and Africa with pride on the international stage. His dedication helped elevate African draughts to the highest level, breaking barriers and inspiring thousands of young players. His presence in tournaments—always humble and determined—embodied the purest spirit of sportsmanship. Passing away during a closing ceremony, surrounded by his draughts family, his departure serves as a reminder that he lived as a true devotee of the game—with the board at his heart until the very end. Draughts players from Senegal, Africa, and around the world share this sorrow, but also the pride of having known such a champion. May his soul rest in peace. Africa will never forget his dedication, perseverance, and grace. Ndiaga Samb will forever be a beacon for those who believe in the power of the game as a vehicle for excellence and unity. The pieces may leave the board, but legends remain.
Retrospective in fragments and games
Authors: Ben Provoost and Ronald Schalley
Ndiaga Samb has left the draughts world with a legacy of magnificent games. From this legacy, we have compiled a small selection, focusing on games—often fragments—against strong opponents, primarily from the period after 1998. The reason for this cutoff is an interview with Samb that appeared in the magazine Dammen (issue 131/132). That interview was accompanied by an extensive selection of his finest and most impressive performances up to that point. Since there was no need to repeat that selection, we confidently refer readers to it. For some of the games and fragments included here, we provide a brief explanation of our selection. The fragment between Samb and Bassirou Ba is included because these two players had long been each other's main rivals in their home country. The combination executed by Samb against Tom Swelsen is featured because of its exceptional brilliance. The fragment from Minkina–Prosman (1992) might seem like an odd inclusion, but replaying it will clarify the choice. Two games are analysed in full: Samb’s duels against Schwarzman (2005) and Ano Adonis (2016). These were selected because they played a crucial role in his fifth-place finish at the World Championship and his victory at the African Championship.
Overview
Samb–Schwarzman, Diouf Memorial 1991 (shown below)
Minkina-Prosman, Brunssum 1992
Samb–Ba, The Hague 1998
Valneris–Samb, World Rapid Championship 1999
Samb–Kouassi, Zeeland Open 2000
Samb–Krajenbrink, Nijmegen 2001
Weytsman–Samb, World Championship 2003
Samb–Georgiev, Delft Kennisstad Top 2004
Samb–H. Jansen, Bijlmertoernooi 2004
Samb–Georgiev, Delft Kennisstad Top 2005
Samb–Shvartsman, World Championship 2005
Valneris–Samb, Seaports Masters 2010
Seck–Samb, Senegalese Championship 2011
Samb–Ano Adonis, African Championship 2016
T. Swelsen–Samb, Heerhugowaard Open 2018