Exciting Start to 2024 National Elementary School Chess Championship in Columbus

The 2024 National Elementary School (NES) Championship in Columbus kicked off with almost 1,600 students from grades kindergarten through sixth grade participating in a weekend filled with chess. The event began on Friday, April 26, and continues with three rounds today. Top boards can be followed on uschess.live throughout the day.

The championship also featured side events such as the National Elementary Blitz championships and the Bughouse tournament. In the K-6 Blitz section, Vihaan Jammalamadaka from Washington dominated with an impressive 11½/12 score, followed by Tariq Yue and Elliott Goodrich. In the K-3 Blitz section, Albert Li from New Jersey emerged victorious with an 11/12 score.

Guest grandmasters Amanov and Krush added excitement to the event with blitz games, lectures, and a tandem simul. The presence of these grandmasters elevated the competition and provided a unique experience for the young players.

In the main championship events, players like Krishna Rallabandi, Sharath Radhakrishnan, and Yi Sha showcased their skills with impressive performances. Upsets and strategic plays kept the competition intense and engaging for both participants and spectators.

The NES Championship continues to be a platform for young chess enthusiasts to showcase their talent and passion for the game. With top players competing and guest grandmasters adding to the excitement, the event promises to be a memorable experience for all involved. Stay tuned for more updates and follow the action on various platforms to catch all the thrilling moments of the championship.