In a world increasingly dominated by fleeting digital interactions, the ancient game of chess continues to command deep respect and fervent participation. This enduring appeal was vividly demonstrated at the recently concluded **12th Dhamso International Chess Festival 2025**, an event that not only broke records but also solidified Sri Lanka`s growing prominence on the global chess map. Held from July 10 to 14, 2025, at the serene Sea Breeze Hotel in Ambalangoda, this year’s festival marked another significant milestone in the country`s rich chess history.
A Festival of Unprecedented Scale
The 2025 edition of the Dhamso International Chess Festival was nothing short of a spectacle. A staggering **536 players** converged on Ambalangoda, transforming the tranquil coastal town into a bustling nexus of strategic thought and intense competition. This record-breaking turnout underscores the burgeoning interest in chess across the region and the festival’s undeniable prestige.
Organized with meticulous precision by the Old Boys’ Chess Association of Dharmasoka College, and operating under the distinguished patronage of the Chess Federation of Sri Lanka, the Asian Chess Federation, and FIDE, the event upheld its reputation for excellence. Since its inception in 2011, the Dhamso Festival has remained a unique entity—the only long-standing FIDE-rated tournament in Sri Lanka managed by a school-affiliated body. A curious fact, perhaps, that some of the most profound intellectual battles can originate from such venerable academic roots.
Crowning the Champions: Open Category
The **Open Championship** was a testament to both unwavering consistency and tactical brilliance. After ten grueling rounds, **CM A A C B Amarasinghe of Sri Lanka** emerged as the undisputed victor, earning the esteemed title of DICF Player of the Year. His performance was remarkable, boasting an almost flawless 9 out of 10 points, with only two draws marring an otherwise perfect score. This commanding display highlighted his exceptional control and foresight on the board, leaving little room for his opponents to maneuver.
The competition for the runner-up positions was fiercely contested. A A H M B Senarathne secured the first runner-up spot with 8.5 points, prevailing over three other contenders on tie-breaks. K G Wimalarathne claimed the second runner-up title, while CM Kosala Sandeepa Chamikara Amarathunge finished a commendable fourth. Such close finishes are a clear indication of the rising standard of chess talent within Sri Lanka.
The Queens` Gambit: Women`s Championship
The **Women’s Championship** delivered an equally enthralling narrative, culminating in a dramatic four-way tie at 7.5 points. In a field brimming with promising talent, **WCM Sethumlee Devhara Palliyage** showcased her resilience and strategic acumen to clinch the championship after the tie-break calculations favored her. It was a nail-biting finish, demonstrating that in chess, as in life, sometimes the smallest margins decide the largest outcomes.
Following closely, B Yenuthi Sahanlee Perera and WFM M Esandi Newansa were recognized as the first and second runners-up, respectively. R P Hansali H Thrinethsaree, despite her strong performance, narrowly missed a podium finish, a poignant reminder that in competitive chess, every half-point matters.
More Than Just Moves: Prizes and Participation
Beyond the glory of titles, the 12th Dhamso International Chess Festival offered a substantial **prize pool of LKR 1.7 million**. This generous allocation, distributed through trophies, medals, and certificates, underscored the organizers` commitment to recognizing and rewarding excellence. The DICF Player of the Year title carried a special award of LKR 150,000, a significant incentive for top-tier performance.
Crucially, the festival embraced an ethos of inclusivity: every single participant received a certificate. This thoughtful gesture ensures that every player, regardless of their final standing, leaves with a tangible acknowledgment of their effort and passion for the game. It’s a subtle yet powerful reinforcement of chess as a community activity, where the journey of participation is as valued as the destination of victory.
Key Highlights of DICF 2025:
- Record Participation: 536 players.
- Open Champion: CM A A C B Amarasinghe.
- Women`s Champion: WCM Sethumlee Devhara Palliyage.
- Total Prize Pool: LKR 1.7 Million.
- Organizer: Old Boys’ Chess Association of Dharmasoka College.
- Significance: Only long-standing FIDE-rated school-affiliated tournament in Sri Lanka since 2011.
A Legacy for Sri Lankan Chess
The 12th Dhamso International Chess Festival was more than just a series of games; it was a vibrant celebration of intellectual sport and community spirit. Its continued success speaks volumes about the dedication of its organizers and the growing enthusiasm for chess within Sri Lanka. As the curtains close on this year`s event, the memories of strategic battles, hard-fought victories, and the sheer joy of the game linger, setting a high bar for future editions.
This festival, with its consistent FIDE rating and deep roots in local education, plays a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of Sri Lankan chess masters. It serves as a vital platform for players to test their skills, earn international ratings, and contribute to the rich tapestry of global chess. The chessboard, after all, is a universal language, and Sri Lanka continues to speak it with increasing fluency and flair.
