The tranquil coastal town of Ambalangoda, nestled on Sri Lanka`s picturesque southwest coast, recently transformed into a vibrant crucible of strategic thought. From July 10 to 14, 2025, the Sea Breeze Hotel played host to the 12th Dhamso International Chess Festival, an event that not only showcased exceptional talent but also marked a significant milestone with a record-breaking participation of 536 players. This annual gathering, a cornerstone in the Sri Lankan chess calendar, once again affirmed its status as a pivotal competition for the nation’s burgeoning chess community.
A Masterclass in the Open Championship
The Open Championship was dominated by a performance of remarkable consistency and precision. CM A.A.C.B. Amarasinghe of Sri Lanka delivered a nearly flawless campaign, culminating in a resounding victory that earned him the prestigious title of DICF Player of the Year. With an impressive 9 out of 10 points, Amarasinghe`s path to triumph saw him concede only two draws across ten intense rounds, a testament to his unwavering focus and strategic depth. While the top spot was decisively claimed, the battle for the runner-up positions was a testament to the competitive spirit of the field. A.A.H.M.B. Senarathne secured the first runner-up spot with 8.5 points, narrowly edging out three other formidable contenders on tie-breaks. K.G. Wimalarathne and CM Kosala Sandeepa Chamikara Amarathunge also displayed commendable performances, securing third and fourth places respectively, highlighting the rising standards of chess in the region.
Women`s Championship: A Battle of Nerves and Skill
The Women`s category delivered a truly nail-biting climax, demonstrating that strategic prowess knows no gender. WCM Sethumlee Devhara Palliyage emerged as the champion after an intensely contested competition that saw a four-way tie at 7.5 points. Her eventual declaration as champion, decided by tie-break rules, underscored the razor-thin margins at the elite level of the women`s game. B. Yenuthi Sahanlee Perera and WFM M. Esandi Newansa claimed the first and second runner-up titles, respectively, with R.P. Hansali H. Thrinethsaree narrowly missing a podium finish. Such a close finish suggests a robust and highly competitive women`s chess scene, where every move, every decision, carries immense weight.
(From left to right): Mr. Nuwan Karunakalage, Mr. Chamin Dennis Livera, WCM Sethumlee Devhara Palliyage, Mr. Yasindu Vithanage at the awards ceremony.
The Enduring Legacy of Dhamso Chess
Beyond the individual victories, the 12th Dhamso International Chess Festival stands as a beacon for chess development in Sri Lanka. Organized by the Old Boys’ Chess Association of Dharmasoka College, the event operates under the distinguished auspices of the Chess Federation of Sri Lanka, the Asian Chess Federation, and FIDE (the International Chess Federation). Since its inception in 2011, the Dhamso Festival has remained the only long-standing FIDE-rated tournament in the country managed by a school-affiliated body. This unique organizational structure not only speaks to the dedication of the Dharmasoka College alumni but also provides a vital platform for aspiring chess players, from seasoned campaigners to promising juniors, to gain international ratings and experience.
This year’s festival was not merely a battle of minds but also a generous recognition of talent. With a total prize pool of LKR 1.7 million (approximately USD 5,600), distributed through trophies, medals, and certificates, the stakes were tangible. The coveted DICF Player of the Year title alone carried a significant special award of LKR 150,000, ensuring that excellence was handsomely rewarded. Furthermore, the commitment to inclusivity was evident, with every participant receiving a certificate, fostering a spirit of encouragement that extends beyond the competitive arena.
Looking Ahead
The successful conclusion of the 12th Dhamso International Chess Festival reaffirms Sri Lanka`s growing prominence in the global chess landscape. The record attendance indicates a surging interest in the game, promising a bright future for its development on the island. As the champions, Amarasinghe and Palliyage, bask in their well-deserved glory, their victories serve as an inspiration to hundreds of young players, proving that dedication, strategic thinking, and a touch of calculated aggression can indeed lead to triumph on the 64 squares. The legacy of Dhamso continues, nurturing talent and expanding the reach of this ancient, yet eternally fascinating, game.
