Harper, Johnson take National chess titles

This was Harper’s eighth title, accumulating a total of 10 points. Coming in second was reigning junior champion, FM Joshua Johnson with nine points while FM Mario Merritt copped the third position with eight points.

Fourth place went to FM Adrian Winter Atwell (8) and 2015 champion, FM Kevin Cupid had to settle for fifth place with 7.5 points.

In the female category, WFM Gabriella Johnson, 15, of St Joseph Convent, Port of Spain, reigned supreme with a perfect score of eight points, to take the national crown.

Candidate Master (CM) Shannon Yearwood came in second with 6.5 points and third place went to Amy Ali (5.5).

WCM Shemila James came in fourth place (5) and Zara La Fleur took fifth place (4.5).