Tang, Belakovskaia, and Woodward Claim Titles; Onischuk Set for Playoff Against Akopian

Tang, Belakovskaia, and Woodward Claim Titles; Onischuk Forces Playoff with Akopian

ST. LOUIS, MO — In a thrilling conclusion to the U.S. Junior and Senior Chess Championships, three titles were clinched on Thursday, while the U.S. Senior Championship will head to a playoff tiebreaker on Friday at noon CDT.

Girls’ Junior Championship: Tang Clinches, Wu Rises

WGM Zoey Tang showcased her prowess by winning the U.S. Girls’ Junior Championship with a commanding two-point lead. Despite only needing a draw to secure her victory, Tang capped off her impressive performance with another win, earning a prize of $15,000 and a spot in the upcoming U.S. Women’s Championship this October.

In a dramatic twist for second place, WIM Rachael Li, who needed just a draw against CM Irene Jiao, faced an unexpected defeat. This opened the door for WGM Rochelle Wu, who triumphed over IM-elect Rose Atwell, allowing her to join Li and FM Jasmine Su in a tie for second place, each taking home $6,583.33.

Senior Women’s Championship: Belakovskaia Clinches, Tsodikova Escapes With Second

WGM Anjelina Belakovskaia secured her second U.S. Senior Women’s Championship title, drawing all four games in a rare peaceful conclusion to the event. Belakovskaia’s victory netted her $17,500.

The battle for second place was fiercely contested, with WFM Natalya Tsodikova managing to hold off WFM Chouchanik Airapetian in their match, ultimately claiming second place and a prize of $10,000.

Junior Championship: Woodward Completes Comeback, Mishra Can’t Convert

In the U.S. Junior Championship, GM Andy Woodward completed a remarkable comeback, defeating GM Kirk Ghazarian to claim the title and a $23,000 prize. Woodward’s strategic play led him to a winning position, despite facing moments of peril.

Meanwhile, GM Abhimanyu Mishra, who was also in contention, fell short against IM Bach Ngo, allowing IM Tanitoluwa Adewumi to tie for second place with Mishra, both earning $11,000.

Senior Championship: Onischuk Forces Playoff

The Senior Championship saw GM Alexander Onischuk force a playoff against GM Vladimir Akopian. Entering the final round just half a point behind, Onischuk capitalized on his recent momentum, securing a win against GM Alexander Fishbein. Akopian, who had been on a three-game drawing streak, managed to hold his own against GM Jesse Kraai, leading to the playoff scenario.

The playoff will consist of two 15-minute games with a 10-second increment, followed by blitz matches if necessary, ensuring an exciting conclusion to the championship.

As the chess community eagerly anticipates the playoff, the excitement in St. Louis continues to build, showcasing the skill and determination of these remarkable players.

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