Isuru dominates National Blitz Chess

Sri Lanka Navy’s FIDE Master Isuru Alahakoon emerged victorious in the National Blitz Chess Championship organized by the Sri Lanka Chess Federation on November 5 at Ananda Vidyalaya Kottawa.

Competing against 328 players in the men’s open championship, Alahakoon showcased his expertise by securing an impressive score of 8.5 out of 9 points. With an unbeaten record and only one draw against Ranindu Dilshan Liyanage in the 7th round, Isuru showcased remarkable consistency and skill throughout the tournament.

In the men’s category, International Master Susal de Silva of Nalanda College, the previous day’s Rapid Chess Championship winner, claimed the first runner-up position with a score of 8 out of 9 points.

FIDE Master Isuru Alahakoon (left) receiving his National Blitz Chess Championship from Chess Federation Secretary Erosh Jayasinghe

Weraka Vasath Ponnamperuma of DS Senayake College clinched the title of second runner-up, showcasing the intense competition and talent in the event.

On the women’s side, Esandi Newansa of Dharmasoka College, who had previously secured the Rapid Chess Champion title, continued her winning streak, securing back-to-back national titles by triumphing in the Blitz Chess Championship with a score of 6.5 out of 7 points. Dahamdi Sanudula of Musaeus College secured the first runner-up position in the women’s championship.

The competition for the second runner-up position was fierce, with four players tied at 6 points.

Ultimately, the 12-year-old Oshini Gunawardhana of Wycherley International School emerged as the second runner-up due to a superior tie-break, showcasing exceptional talent at a young age.

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