Highlights from the 2026 National Elementary School Championships: New Champions Crowned in Baltimore
New Champions Crowned at 2026 National Elementary School Championships in Baltimore
Baltimore, MD – Sunday marked a thrilling conclusion to the 2026 National Elementary School Championships, where young chess prodigies showcased their skills across four distinct grade-level championships. The event, held in the heart of Baltimore, saw fierce competition and remarkable displays of strategy, culminating in the crowning of new national champions.
K-6 Championship: A Four-Way Tie
In the K-6 Championship, a unique blend of sixth graders and younger competitors, four players emerged as co-champions, each finishing with an impressive score of 6 out of 7. Winsley Wu (NY), Grant A. Weyman (PA), WFM Aimee Yang (PA), and Steven Liu (MD) demonstrated exceptional talent and resilience throughout the tournament.
Yang entered the final day as the sole leader but faced tough draws against both Wu and Liu, allowing her co-champions to catch up. Wu, who clinched first place on tiebreaks, and Liu both secured victories in their final games, while Weyman, who started the tournament rated significantly lower than his competitors, made headlines with an undefeated performance that boosted his rating by an astonishing 155 points.
The Speyer Legacy School (NY) triumphed in the K-6 Team Championship, finishing with a score of 19½ out of 28, narrowly edging out Success Academy Midtown West (NY).
K-5 Championship: Karthik’s Clutch Performance
In the K-5 Championship, Aarav Karthik (MI) emerged victorious, showcasing his tactical prowess. After a tense Round 6 against fellow contender Raben Goel (NJ), Karthik secured a win in Round 7 against Advik Manchada (TX), while Goel suffered a loss, allowing Karthik to claim the title. PS 130 The Parkside School (NY) took home the K-5 Team Championship with a commanding score of 19½ out of 28.
K-3 Championship: Mehmet Yilanli Shines
Second grader Mehmet Yilanli (OH) continued to impress, sweeping the K-3 Championship with a perfect score of 7 out of 7. Known for his creative play, Yilanli has quickly become a name to watch in the chess community. PS 198 Isador E Ida Straus (NY) won the K-3 Team Championship, finishing just ahead of PS 77 Lower Lab School (NY) and Trinity School (NY).
K-1 Championship: Wang and Xiong Share Glory
In the K-1 Championship, Aidan Wang (NY) and Isaac Xiong (NY) finished with identical scores of 6½ out of 7, sharing the top honors. Wang’s impressive upset against the top seed, Ojas Daftuar (CA), in the final round secured his place among the champions. Oak Hall Lower School (FL) and The Speyer Legacy School (NY) tied for first in the K-1 Team Championship, with Oak Hall taking the title on tiebreaks.
Celebrity Sightings and Signings
The excitement of the tournament was amplified by special appearances from chess luminaries. IM Danny Rensch, Chess.com’s Chief Chess Officer, signed copies of his memoir, while WGM Jennifer Shahade engaged with fans, giving away her new book, Thinking Sideways. Shahade’s generosity allowed many young players to connect with a three-time national champion after their final games.
Looking Ahead
As the dust settles on this year’s championships, the chess community eagerly anticipates the upcoming National Middle School (K-8) Championship in Round Rock, TX, from May 15-17. With the spring scholastic season still in full swing, young chess enthusiasts are encouraged to continue honing their skills and preparing for future competitions.
For full results and more information, visit the National Elementary School Championships event hub.