January ’26, Chess League
January ’26 Chess League Results
The 2026 Chess League re-started with a bang with the first tournament of the year! With the introduction of additional sections, increased prize pool and introducing 4 new players to rated chess, our hearts overflow with joy watching the game grow in Columbia County!
Open Section
With the introduction of a handful of new players, local legend William Bowman re-stablishes himself as a force to be reckoned with going a perfect 4.0 / 4 points on the day taking first place. Newcomer Jeremian Contreras ties Alexander Looney, with both finishing 3.0 / 4 points and tying for 2nd Place!
U1300 Section
After combining with the Open section, increasing their level of competition in Accelerated Swiss play, Matthew Hopper and Sheldan Kaplan finish as the top two finishers of those that registered in the U1300 Section, while Gary Richard and Gurnoor tie for the third place finisher of the section!
U800 Section
With the introduction of the U800 section, Ryan Kim has been studying and studying and studying… and its shows! Ryan Kim goes a perfect 4.0 / 4 points on the day finish in first place in the U800 Section. Navtej Farmaha continues his impressive climb up the rating finishing in 2nd Place with 3.0 / 4 points. Peter Newton, Alan Li and Zhengwen (George) Xiang all tie for 3rd place with 2.0 / 4 points.
U400 Section
Continuing the U400, Beginners Section from the end of last year we found some exciting new players plating for the first time; Evan Tran and Zoya Looney! Through heavy thought and concentration, Atharva Mishra goes perfect on the day finishing in first place! Jack Richards and Evan Tran go 3.0 / 4 points to end tied for second!
Columbia County Chess Association 