February ’26, Chess League
February ’26 Chess League Results
February marked of the 2nd of the chess league events of 2026 with excitement overflowing in the Under sections! With the introduction of an additional 4 new players to rated chess we are overcome with enthusiasm to watch chess grow in our community!
This confident young man began playing with us last year inventing moves, and climbing his way up the USCF ratings. Vivek Raval gained 420 points in 2025, winning the Columbia County Chess Association’s 2025 Most Improved Player.
Open Section
With aspiring player moving up to the upper sections, newcomer John Helman bursts onto the scene taking 1st Place, besting local prodigy Alexander Looney who finished in a tie for 3rd Place. Alexander Looney takes over the lead in the Chess League standings with his performances over the first two tournaments of the year! Ryan Kim, after introducing himself to the U1300 and Open Section, takes the overall points lead in the U1300 Chess League standings!
U800 Section
With players moving up through the sections, new opportunities arise for our younger players. Vivek capitalized after receiving the Most Improved Player Award of 2025! Vivek Raval goes a perfect 4.0 / 4 points on the day to win first place! Vihaan Shah and Alan Li finish closely behind in second place going 3.0 / 4 points on the day! Vivek earns the right to move up to the U1300 Section next month with his outstanding performance!
Navtej Farmaha and Alan Li tie for the overall points lead in the U800 Chess League Standings
U400 Section
Developing her chess skills and feel for the board through 2025, Erin Charles breaks out of her shell and impresses all going a perfect 4.0 / 4 points on the day winning the U400 Prize! Jack Richards finishes in 2nd Place going 2.5 / 4 points on the day! Erin advances to the U800 section, with Jack Richards securely in first place in the U400 Chess League Standings!
Columbia County Chess Association 