The Bahamas Chess Federation successfully hosted the 2026 Scholastic Individual Chess Tournament on May 23rd–24th, 2026, bringing together many of the country’s top young chess talents for an exciting weekend of competition.
The tournament was played in a 7-round Swiss format with a rapid time control of Game in 15 minutes (G/15). In addition to determining the national scholastic champions, the event also served as an official qualifier for the Bahamas CAC Youth Chess Team that will travel to Costa Rica in November 2026.
WCM Chika Pride delivered a dominant performance to capture the overall championship title undefeated, finishing clear first place. Chika entered the event determined to win after her brother, Avian Pride, had previously held the title for four consecutive years.
Valintino Charlton secured second place overall with an impressive score of 6/7 points, while Abijith Nair claimed third place on tiebreaks after a strong performance throughout the tournament.
Overall Winners
1st Place — WCM Chika Pride 7/7
2nd Place — Valintino Charlton 6/7
3rd Place — Abijith Nair 5/7
Top Female Winners
1st Place — WCM Chika Pride
2nd Place — Isabelle Allen
3rd Place — A’maris McGregor
The Bahamas Chess Federation also congratulates the winners of the age categories:
Age Category Winners
Under 8
Absolute — Bradley Carroll
Female — Roxy-Bear Simmons
Under 10
Absolute — Justus Moxey
Under 12
Absolute — Canaan Johnson
Female — Amelia Clare
Under 14
Absolute — Bharath Nair
Female — Isabelle Allen
Under 16
Absolute — Abijith Nair
Female — WCM Chika Pride
Under 18
Absolute — Valintino Charlton
As part of the qualification process for the CAC Youth Chess Festival 2026, age category winners earned the opportunity to represent The Bahamas at the regional championship in Costa Rica.
The Bahamas Chess Federation was especially pleased to welcome participation from a wide range of schools and institutions including Harbour Island Green School, Lyford Cay International School, BTVI, Queen’s College, Columbus Primary School, homeschool students, and more.
The Federation extends its sincere thanks to Boost Academy, our venue, all players, parents, coaches, arbiters, volunteers, and supporters who contributed to the success of the event as the organization continues its mission of growing scholastic chess throughout The Bahamas.
