The Tonga Chess Federation has reported encouraging performances from its youth team at the Oceania Youth Chess Championship 2026, held from April 8 to 13, where Tongan players competed against leading junior talent from across the region.
According to the federation, the results reflect improvement compared with the team’s showing at a tournament in Brisbane in December last year, with players demonstrating greater consistency and confidence over multiple rounds.
In the girls’ division, Mohe Lomu scored four points and obtained her first international rating from the FIDE, the global chess governing body. Hinavakamea Helu recorded an international win and later added a draw in the final rounds, marking one of the early competitive results for a Tongan female player at this level.
In the open section, Donald Tonutonu was described by team officials as competitive in several matches against higher-rated opponents, while Tau Satini created attacking opportunities in multiple games, though without converting them into wins.
Head coach Gary Bekker said the players showed steady development over the course of the tournament, noting their effort and ability to adapt between rounds.
The team was supported by assistant coaches Veisinia and Lavinia, who assisted with preparation and post-game analysis. The trip also received support from Waterfront Lodge & Restaurant.
The federation said the experience gained at the regional event is expected to contribute to preparations for the upcoming national championship in June, where the same players are likely to compete.
