Chess's coveted Williamson Shield is 100 years old this year. Ulster's oldest open chess tournament attracted a strong field in both senior and junior sections. Steve Scannell (Bangor) in another exceptional performance scored 5.5 out of 6 to win the tournament convincingly from Michael Waters (Fisherwick), a full point behind in second place. Creditable performances from other Bangor players Damien Lavery, Mark Newman and James O'Fee.

Congratulations to youngster David Grzymek (Bangor), scoring a solid 2.5 points, for his spectacular win in the closing minutes of the tournament. David's elegant Queen mate against Fred MacDonald (North Belfast) stunned spectators as Fred's attack evaporated into the silence.

The junior section was won by Jack McCann (Dublin) followed by Alan Burns (CIYMS) and Richard Proctor (Bangor). Bangor's Richard Morrow also fared well.