Exciting Highlights of the 2026 National Middle School (K-8) Championship in Round Rock, TX!

Excitement Builds for the 2026 National Middle School (K-8) Chess Championship in Round Rock, TX

This weekend, from May 15 to 17, Round Rock, Texas, will transform into a battleground of intellect and strategy as the US Chess Federation hosts the highly anticipated National Middle School (K-8) Championship. With registration still open until 10:00 a.m. CDT on Friday, aspiring chess prodigies have a final chance to join the ranks of the nation’s best scholastic players.

The event promises a thrilling lineup of activities, featuring renowned chess figures and engaging competitions. Among the highlights is a special appearance by Grandmaster Julio Sadorra, who will host a 30-board simultaneous exhibition on Friday at 9 a.m. Participants can also challenge GM Sadorra during the “Take-on-all-Comers” Blitz sessions scheduled throughout the weekend.

In addition to the competitive spirit, attendees can benefit from two enlightening Grandmaster Lectures. On Saturday, GM Sadorra will delve into “The Science of Defense,” while Sunday’s session, “Facing Chess Giants,” will provide historical insights into the game.

Adding to the excitement, Women’s Grandmaster Jennifer Shahade will be on-site promoting her new book, Thinking Sideways. Chess enthusiasts can catch her simul exhibition on Friday at 4:30 p.m., participate in puzzles and Q&A on Saturday, and attend her book signing on Sunday.

The event will also feature a dedicated US Chess Girls Club Room, where female players and their families can engage in special activities with guests like WIM Luciana Morales and IM/WGM Tatev Abrahamyan.

For those looking for fast-paced action, the Blitz and Bughouse tournaments will offer thrilling gameplay, with the Blitz tournament kicking off on Thursday, May 14, at 5 p.m. and the Bughouse tournament at 11 a.m. on the same day.

Not just for competitors, the Friends and Family Chess Tournament on Saturday invites parents, grandparents, and friends to join in the fun with four rounds of games.

Chess fans unable to attend in person can still catch all the action live on Twitch, with expert commentary starting at 1 p.m. CDT on Friday.

With over 1,277 competitors expected, the 2026 National Middle School (K-8) Championship is set to be an unforgettable weekend of chess, camaraderie, and competition. Follow along on social media with the hashtag #NMSChessChamps for updates and insights throughout the event.

For more information and to register, visit the US Chess event page. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to witness the future stars of chess!