A reluctant but courteous winner
The chess tournament in Feis Sligo took place on Easter Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Mr. P. J. McMahon entered for the major tourney, and played six opponents on Monday, beat four, and the others were not required. They offered him the Ivory Queen and medal, but he refused both, and told them he was sorry he had entered as he only spoiled the tournament. So he came home on Monday night, and the games went on amongst themselves. The officials sent Mr. McMahon the Ivory Queen and medal, with a note thanking him for his trouble and wishing to see him next year, when they will have some strong opponents to give him a good run for his money. He wishes to thank all the officials, especially Mrs. Mulcahy, to whom he pays a very high compliment for her energy, tact, and ability in running this tournament to such a success; and, in passing, he hopes next year some of Dublin's good players will come along, as he is anxious to play Dublin men.
Mr. McMahon gives a good account of Sligo chess players. He says they take a keen interest in the game, and are very anxious to meet, and friendly to greet, strangers; they are well trained in the openings. As you know, Mr. McMahon has been the holder of the Belfast Championship for four consecutive years and tied with Messrs. O'Hanlon and Allen in Irish Chess Championship in 1926.
