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AOJ 2025

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By Hywel Griffiths · 05-Jul-2025

The AOJ: Another Resounding Success

The AOJ was once again a great success, drawing in 35 entries—the second-highest in its history—thanks to the tireless efforts of Bill Hewitt and the tournament's expansion into other zones across Wales.

Players from all over were drawn to this rapid-play event, boosted by widespread Facebook publicity. It brought together a wonderful mix of experienced players—some of the best in Wales—and enthusiastic newcomers taking part in their first year of tournaments.

A big thanks must go to Morriston Chess Club for lending the rugby football club venue. Their players certainly turned out in force, with 13 of them competing. With names like Moss McCarthy, Ian Jones, Adam Woodruff, and Peter Bevan in the lineup, it was no surprise that Morriston delivered some of the best results in the tournament.

The early rounds are often the toughest for lower-rated players, but it was fantastic to see so many 1300 and 1400 rated players taking part. There were 13 of this standard, which shows that the tournament is no longer just a battleground for the league’s highest-rated players. No matter what the grade, everyone enjoyed the generous buffet put on by the rugby football club and players eagerly tucked in.

With a clean draw in the fifth round, round six became a tricky pairing challenge—but tournament veteran Ian Eustace handled it with ease. At the top of the table, Vismith Prabhu had an incredible run, scoring five out of five in the first rounds. The tournament favourite had only lost one game by that point, with Morriston’s Adam Woodruff equal. In the final round, tensions were high as Moss faced Vismith in a crucial match that could open the door for Adam to claim a share of first place. When both Moss and Adam won their games, Adam, Vismith, and Moss shared first place. It should be noted that at 15, Vismith is likely to be the youngest ever to win the trophy.

In the grading prizes:

  • Lucas Zheng, Donovan Sipho, and Andrew Smith topped the U1850 category.
  • James Chung, Tamur Ramazan, and Stuart Enoch led the U1600 group.
  • Advik Ram and Clara Deng triumphed in the U1400 category.

Huge thanks go to everyone who took part, for respecting the venue and supporting the event. Special recognition goes to organisers Bill Hewitt and Ian Eustis for making it all run smoothly.

P.S. A grey coat was left behind at the venue—if anyone’s missing one, please pop by and pick it up!