International Master Ranindu Dilshan Liyanage and Devindya Oshini Gunawardhana emerged victorious in the Sri Lanka National Chess Championships 2024. The prestigious event, organized by the Chess Federation of Sri Lanka, reached its culmination on March 31st, 2024, at the elegant Taj Samudra Hotel in Colombo, marking a significant milestone in the Sri Lanka National Cycle.
A total prize purse of one million rupees added fervor to the competition, with champions in both the open and women’s categories receiving Rs 250,000.00 and Rs 200,000.00 respectively. The championships, which commenced on March 23rd, unfolded as a 13-round round-robin format affair, with a time control of 90 minutes plus a 30-second increment from move 01. Notably, the event boasted the participation of a youthful cohort, making it one of the youngest Nationals in Sri Lankan chess history.
In the fiercely contested Open event, International Master Ranindu Dilshan Liyanage, representing Läufer Chess Club, showcased exceptional skill and determination, securing the championship with an impressive score of 12/13 points. Liyanage’s unbeaten streak throughout the event underscored his dominance on the board, with notable draws only in the 3rd and 12th rounds.
International Master L M Susal De Silva of Nalanda College clinched the first runner-up position with 11/13 points, edging past competitors with a superior tiebreak.
Meanwhile, International Master Harshana Thilakarathne of the University of Moratuwa secured the second runner-up position with an equally commendable score of 11/13 points.
In the Women’s event, Devindya Oshini Gunawardhana, representing Wycherley International School, showcased remarkable talent and composure to claim the championship title with an impressive score of 11/13 points. Gunawardhana’s stellar performance established her as the youngest player to clinch the women’s national championship, a testament to her exceptional skill and dedication.
Woman Candidate Master Ehsha Mishela Pallie of Visakha Vidyalaya, Colombo 05, secured the first runner-up position with 10/13 points, while Woman Candidate Master T H D Niklesha Tharushi of the University of Kelaniya secured the second runner-up position with 9.5/13 points, adding further depth to the competitive field.
The awards ceremony, graced by the presence of Mr. Luxman Wijesuriya, President of the Chess Federation of Sri Lanka, and esteemed executive committee members, provided a fitting conclusion to the championships, celebrating the remarkable achievements of the players.
The Chess Federation of Sri Lanka extends heartfelt congratulations to all the winners of the Sri Lanka National Chess Championships 2024, applauding their exemplary performance and unwavering dedication to the sport. As these talented individuals continue to inspire and elevate the game of chess in Sri Lanka, their achievements serve as a beacon of hope for aspiring chess enthusiasts nationwide.