This weekend saw the welcome return of the Sheffield Congress, last held in 2017.

John Huthwaite came joint 2nd with 5 others, including former member Oliver Graham, on 4 / 5 in the U1900 Major section. He had a frustrating 1st round after his opponent did not turn up. After drawing his next game, he took his customary 1/2 point bye in round 3. On Sunday he won both games. All 3 opponents were rated higher than 1800, showing just how well he played.

Just behind him, on 3.5 points was Drag Sudar. After losing in round 1, he won his next two games and picked up a draw and win on Sunday.

Marian-Silviu Talmacel, playing in his first Major section, played well to get 2 points against opponents whose average rating was over 1700.

David Dunne was on 2 points after Saturday’s 3 games in the U1600 Intermediate section, but could only manage .5 points on Sunday.

Also playing in the Intermediate section were former members Michael Harper, coming joint second with 4 points, and Maggie Gretton who scored 2.5 points.