Editor’s Note: Highlights from the XVII Campeonato Continental Femenino de Ajedrez de Las Américas

American Women Shine at the XVII Campeonato Continental Femenino de Ajedrez de Las Américas

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In a vibrant display of skill and camaraderie, eight American women chess players recently represented the United States at the XVII Campeonato Continental Femenino de Ajedrez de Las Américas, held from March 31 to April 5, 2026, in the picturesque city of Lima, Peru. This prestigious tournament, hosted at the luxurious Delfines Hotel, attracted 55 top female competitors from across the Americas, all vying for glory in a demanding nine-round format.

Among the standout performances was that of then-WIM Iris Mou, who clinched the Women’s Grandmaster (WGM) title with her impressive first-place finish. The tournament not only showcased elite chess but also served as a platform for personal growth and cultural exchange for the American participants.

A Journey of Growth and Discovery

Lauren Goodkind, a chess coach and author from Northern California, shared her experiences from the tournament, marking her second appearance at the Continental Women’s Championship. “Representing your country on an international stage is a lot of fun and always pushes you out of your comfort zone,” she reflected. Goodkind finished with a solid score of five wins and four losses, significantly improving from her previous outing in the Dominican Republic.

Her journey was not just about the chessboard; it was also a cultural immersion. “I took a wonderful city tour of Lima before the tournament began,” she said, highlighting the rich history and beauty of Peru. Goodkind’s tournament experience was further enriched by her encounters with world-class players, including WGM Sabina Foisor and IM Deysi Cori.

Memorable Matches and Unique Moments

The tournament was filled with memorable moments, including a rare underpromotion to a bishop that secured Goodkind a victory against a talented nine-year-old local player. “It felt absolutely magical!” she exclaimed, emphasizing the joy of facing local talent and the thrill of international competition.

Megan Chen, another American competitor and the first woman to play rated chess in all 50 states, echoed Goodkind’s sentiments. “My main goal this year was to finish with a better score than last year,” she said, ultimately achieving a score of 4/9 and scoring wins against higher-rated opponents. Chen’s journey was marked by personal milestones and the thrill of competing against some of the best female players in the Americas.

Beyond the Chessboard

After the tournament, both Goodkind and Chen took the opportunity to explore Peru’s breathtaking landscapes. They visited iconic sites such as Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain, enriching their experience beyond the chessboard. “Peru is an incredibly beautiful nation with a lot of natural wonders,” Goodkind noted, emphasizing the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone.

A Call to Action for Female Players

Both players encourage fellow female chess enthusiasts to embrace international competition. “Take the leap,” Goodkind urged. “It is a privilege to represent the U.S. abroad while making lifelong connections with women from different countries and cultures.”

As the tournament concluded, the American delegation left Lima not only as stronger chess players but also with enriched perspectives and unforgettable memories. The XVII Campeonato Continental Femenino de Ajedrez de Las Américas proved to be more than just a competition; it was a celebration of talent, culture, and the enduring spirit of chess.

With aspirations to continue competing on the international stage, Goodkind and Chen hope to inspire more female players to join them in future tournaments, fostering a vibrant community of women in chess.