Williamson Shield 2026: Storms, Strategy, and a New Champion

Belfast, January 2026 — As winds howled across the Stormont Estate on a wild January evening, thirty-five determined competitors stepped into the Pavilion, ready to contest one of Ulster’s oldest and most prestigious chess trophies: the Williamson Shield, first awarded in 1912 and proudly hosted by the Civil Service Chess Club.

The 2026 edition featured a single, fiercely competitive section with a 60+30 time control, a setting that produced drama, endurance, and masterful play across all five rounds.

Round 1: Friday Night Fireworks

The opening round paired the top half against the bottom, offering early upset potential. While the favourites held firm, one encounter stole the spotlight:
James Wong vs. Ethan Cole, two former Strand teammates, battled through a thrilling 75-move encounter blending sharp attacks and deep resilience. Cole eventually secured the point, but not without significant challenges along the way.

Round 2: The First Major Upset

Saturday morning delivered a shockwave when Lisburn rising star Anayraj Tripathy defeated multiple-time Williamson Shield champion Steve Scannell, whose first Williamson Shield win dates back to 1998. Tripathy’s victory, a beautifully constructed attacking masterpiece, is already available for study on UlsterChess.net.

Meanwhile, another marathon unfolded:
Jack Bradshaw vs. Ethan Cole, a 124-move struggle lasting over four hours. Bradshaw’s steadfast defence and Cole’s relentless determination provided a model display of sporting spirit.

Round 3: A Sicilian Showdown

The standout match of Round 3 saw Gareth Annesley and Danny Roberts clash in a razor-sharp Sicilian Defence. Punch met counterpunch in a tactical duel that showcased both players’ attacking flair. Ultimately, Annesley, a seasoned multi-time Williamson Shield winner, navigated the battle and secured the win.

Round 4: The Summit Meeting

Only two players remained perfect entering Round 4:
Mandar Tahmankar (Civil Service) and Andrew Campbell (Bangor).

Their board-one encounter became a 60-move strategic epic, full of subtle planning and deep calculation. In the end, Tahmankar’s experience and consistency earned him the full point, placing him in commanding position heading into the final round.

Special recognition also goes to David Garvin, whose confident and effective handling of the Pirc Defence helped secure multiple wins with the Black pieces.

Round 5: Closing the Deal

With draws on the top boards in the final round, Mandar Tahmankar sealed the championship title, completing a composed and disciplined campaign.

Final Standings

Overall

• 1st Place: Mandar Tahmankar

• 2nd Place: Gabriel Landmark

• 3rd Place: Andrew Campbell

• 4th Place: Jack Edens

1650–1800 Section

• 1st Place: James Wong

• 2nd Place: David Jeffers

• 3rd Place: David Garvin

1400–1649 Section

• 1st Place: Chris Armstrong

• 2nd Place: David Blair

• 3rd Place: Aharshi Banerjee

NEXT EVENT: Ulster Rapid Championship 2026

Date: Saturday 28th February 2026

Venue: Fruithill Chess Club

Other 2025/2026 events awaiting final confirmations: City of Belfast, Ulster Fischer Random, GM Simul