The Jamaica Chess Federation hosted the 2026 Chess Nationals and Senior Nationals from January 23 to February 1 at the new headquarters in Half-Way-Tree.

FM Shreyas Smith won his seventh national title going unbeaten through 10 rounds and was closely followed by FM Raheem Glaves and FM Jaden Shaw into second and third place, respectively, with CM Jhustice-Dimonte McDonald, fourth, and CM Nathan Hinds rounding out the top five places.

WFM Adani Clarke won her second National title, relegating the 2025 national champion WCM Kaia Gayle to second place, with 2024 National Champion WCM Gabriella Watson placing third, with Glory Murphy fourth and Denbigh High school sensation Antasia Murdock rounding out the top five places.

In the senior section, Ian Wilkinson KC recovered from a round one loss with six victories to win the title from Michael Diedrick, a chess veteran with over 50 years of competitive chess under his belt, CM Mark Holness was third, Mark Henry fourth and Howard Wilson rounded out the top five places.

In winning his seventh national title, FM Shreyas Smith pointed out that his aim is to win 10 national titles minimum, which would see him surpass the current record holder FM Warren Elliott, who currently holds eight National Absolute titles. WFM Adani Clarke shared how happy she was to be back playing competitive chess and also her plans to intensify her training throughout the year.

Senior section winner Ian Wilkinson, KC thanked everyone for his victory and their support over the past 11 days of planning, playing and executing the event, but saved the loudest applause for Burger King, who came on-board as the title sponsor for the Nationals, and shared his hope that Burger King and the Jamaica Chess Federation will forge a long-term partnership going forward. Other sponsors included Magnificent Chess Foundation, Sports Development Foundation and the Jamaica Chess Federation.

WFM Adani Clarke.