Tonga will host its first national chess championship next month, a three-day tournament at Tonga High School from 23-25 June 2026, with an open call for Tongan players.
The tournament, organised by Tonga Chess Federation Inc.,follows the recent success of Tonga's youth team in Christchurch, New Zealand. Top youth players including Mohe Lomu, Hinavakamea Helu, Donald Tonutonu and Tau'ataina Satini competed.
The winner of the June National Chess Championship will claim the title and a cash prize, while selected players will earn spots for the Chess Olympiad to beheld in Tashkent, in September.
The tournament will follow FIDE laws of chess, with games played under a standard time control of 60 minutes plus a 30-second increment per move.
Tournament Schedule
Day Round Time
23rd June, Tuesday.
Round 1 - 10AM
Round 2 - 2:30PM
24th June, Wednesday.
Round 3 - 10AM
Round 4 - 2:30PM
25th June, Thursday.
Round 5 - 10AM
Prizegiving 2:30PM
Prize money
$750 pa'anga awarded for first place
$500 pa'anga for second
$250 pa'anga for third
An International Arbiter will travel to Tonga to oversee the competition and ensure international tournament standards are met.
Tonga chess federation urges players to register early as places are limited. (For registration and inquiries, contact Bill Sanft on +676 7705 127).
