1,175 players from 36 states compete in Atlanta to determine top middle school chess players

The nation’s top middle school chess players gathered in Atlanta, Georgia for the 2024 National Middle School Championship, organized by the US Chess Federation. A total of 1,175 players from 36 states competed in this prestigious tournament held at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta from May 10-12.

The individual K-8 Co-Champions were Nikash Vemparala from Overlake School in Redmond, Washington, and Eric Liu from Wester Middle School in Frisco, Texas. Liu successfully defended his title from the previous year, showcasing his exceptional skills on the chessboard.

In the team championships, Columbia Grammar and Prep from New York, NY, and The Speyer Legacy School, also from New York, NY, were crowned as the K-8 Co-Champions. These teams displayed outstanding teamwork and strategic thinking throughout the tournament.

US Chess Executive Director Ranae Bartlett highlighted the participation of Hamilton Chess from Novato, California, and Grace James Academy of Excellence from Louisville, Kentucky, as part of the Title I School Grant initiative. This program aims to bring chess to students from underserved communities, reflecting US Chess’s commitment to empowering individuals through the game.

For a full list of winners and more information about the tournament, visit the US Chess website. Stay tuned for the final tournament report to be posted soon.