The tranquil coastal town of Ambalangoda, Sri Lanka, recently played host to a grand spectacle of strategic prowess: the 12th Dhamso International Chess Festival 2025. Far from being a mere local affair, this FIDE-rated tournament, a cornerstone of Sri Lankan chess, drew a record 536 players, all vying for supremacy over the chessboard. What unfolded was a meticulous five-day contest of minds, culminating in the crowning of CM A A C B Amarasinghe as the Open Champion and DICF Player of the Year, and WCM Sethumlee Devhara Palliyage as the Women`s Champion.
A Legacy of Logical Combat in Ambalangoda
From July 10 to 14, 2025, the Sea Breeze Hotel transformed into a silent battlefield where every move was a calculated risk, and a momentary lapse could spell disaster. Organized with remarkable dedication by the Old Boys’ Chess Association of Dharmasoka College, and sanctioned by the Chess Federation of Sri Lanka, the Asian Chess Federation, and FIDE, the festival continued its proud legacy. Since its inception in 2011, Dhamso has distinguished itself as the only long-standing FIDE-rated tournament in the country managed by a school-affiliated body – a testament to the enduring passion for chess nurtured at its very roots.
With a substantial prize pool of LKR 1.7 million, alongside coveted trophies, medals, and participation certificates for all, the stakes were undeniably high. This commitment to both elite competition and grassroots engagement underscores the festival`s critical role in nurturing chess talent across the nation.
Amarasinghe`s Flawless Performance Steals the Open Spotlight
In the fiercely contested Open Championship, CM A A C B Amarasinghe delivered a performance that could only be described as near-perfect. Amassing an impressive 9 out of 10 points, his strategy was so robust that only two draws could impede his otherwise flawless run. His commanding victory secured him not only the Open title but also the prestigious DICF Player of the Year award, accompanied by a special LKR 150,000 prize. One might say he moved pieces with such precision that opponents almost forgot they were allowed to move theirs. The race for the runner-up positions was a testament to the depth of talent, with A A H M B Senarathne securing second place after a nail-biting tie-break, closely followed by K G Wimalarathne and CM Kosala Sandeepa Chamikara Amarathunge.
Women`s Championship: A Decisive Tie-Break
The Women’s Championship proved equally captivating, culminating in a dramatic four-way tie at 7.5 out of 10 points. In such high-stakes scenarios, the tie-break system steps in, a logical necessity to dissect the seemingly identical performances and ensure a clear victor. It was WCM Sethumlee Devhara Palliyage who ultimately emerged as the champion, her composure under pressure proving decisive. This victory underscores the growing strength and competitive spirit within Sri Lankan women`s chess. B Yenuthi Sahanlee Perera and WFM M Esandi Newansa claimed the first and second runner-up titles respectively, demonstrating the sharp competitive edge present in the female contingent.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Sri Lankan Chess
The 12th Dhamso International Chess Festival stands as more than just a tournament; it’s a vibrant affirmation of Sri Lanka’s burgeoning chess scene. The record participation signifies a growing interest and investment in the sport, particularly among younger players who see these events as crucial stepping stones on their journey to masterdom. Events like Dhamso are instrumental in providing FIDE-rated competitive experience, nurturing future grandmasters, and fostering a deep love for the game from an early age. As the dust settles on this year`s intellectual battles in Ambalangoda, the chess community in Sri Lanka looks forward with anticipation to another year of strategic growth and exciting competition, further solidifying its place on the international chess map. The pieces are set for an even more exciting future.
