With just few hours left for Chess Olympiad to kick off in Mahabalipuram, chess fever has gripped the city. The whole town is painted in black and white. Banners and festoons welcoming international players and dignitaries could be seen everywhere. The city which produced many international masters and grand masters is all geared up for the mega event that would end 10 August. With a record 187 countries taking part with 188 teams in the Open section and 162 in the Women’s section, the Olympiad will witness the highest ever participation. A record total of 30 Indian players across six teams (Three in open and three women) will be participating in the Olympiad. The event would be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi today in Chennai in the presence of Chief Minister MK Stalin.