Chess season ends with rapid tournament at Bangor Chess Club

Speed chess supremo Danny Roberts was crowned champion with an undefeated score of 5.5/6, followed in second place by Michael Sheerin on 5/6 and Pat Coleman clinched third place with 4.5/6.

The intermediate band saw three players end with 4/6, with tie-breaks awarding the championship to 17 year old Ciaran Rowan, an up-and-coming chess star who already has a FIDE rating in the 1500s. Meanwhile, newcomer Rory McQuillan delivered an impressive number of wins to take 2nd place in his first ever rated event and American visitor Abe Lorber won 3rd place.

The junior band saw club veteran Alwyn Pollock crowned champion, with Craig Kelly finishing 2nd and Owen Wilson came 3rd. Top newcomer went to Rebecca McClurg, finishing the night with an excellent Round 6 checkmate.

Bangor Grammar players Adam Rushe and Ben Toogood took the awards for ‘Top Visiting Player’ and ‘Top School Player’ respectively. The tournament organiser also gave 8 year old Kyle McKimm a special mention for his excellent round 4 victory and commended his strong style of openings during his first ever tournament.

The regular monthly rapid-plays have become a highlight at the club and while most players now disappear during the summer break, the Bangor Congress is set to return at the end of September to Groomsport Parish Halls. This will be a full day Saturday event and it traditionally kicks off the new chess season. Many local players are already looking forward to it, promising to be a fun day of chess in a beautiful and tranquil setting on the North Down coast.

Prize-winners at the May Rapid Chess Tournament at Bangor Chess Club. Left to right: Craig Kelly (Junior 2nd), Ciaran Rowan (Intermediate Champion), Owen Wilson (Junior 3rd), Alwyn Pollock (Junior Champion), Danny Roberts (Champion), Michael Sheerin (2nd), Pat Coleman (3rd), Adam Rushe (Top Visiting Player), Rory McQuillan (Intermediate 2nd), Abe Lorber (Intermediate 3rd) and Rebecca McClurg (Top Newcomer).