Fourth Edition

Description

Fourth Edition

The first issue of The Thinker’s Journal for 2026 brings together stories, results, and reflections from across the Welsh chess community.

This edition captures the activity and momentum building across the country — from league battles and congress tournaments to junior successes and the growing intersection between chess and esports. As Welsh chess continues to evolve, this issue documents the players, events, and clubs shaping the current landscape.

Inside you’ll find updates from the East Glamorgan Chess Association leagues, coverage of the West Wales League, and a look at the expanding reach of Welsh chess through the Welsh Esports League Season 10, where chess returns as part of a multi-game national competition.

The magazine also highlights the next generation of talent with junior successes in Bristol, alongside features on organisations helping to develop the game such as the Carmarthenshire Chess Academy.

Tournament reports feature strongly in this issue, including:

• West Wales Congress 2025

• The 51st Dyfed Congress

• Bridgend Blitz

• Reflections on Morriston’s chess journey

Across these pages you’ll find photographs, tournament insights, league tables, and stories from players who continue to keep chess vibrant throughout Wales.

As always, The Thinker’s Journal aims to be more than a magazine. It is a record of the Welsh chess community — its competitions, its characters, and its shared passion for the game.

Inside this edition

• Editor’s welcome and plans for the 2026 publishing schedule

• Welsh League updates (EGCA)

• Welsh Esports League Season 10

• West Wales League coverage

• Junior chess success in Bristol

• Carmarthenshire Chess Academy feature

• West Wales Congress 2025 report

• 51st Dyfed Congress coverage

• Morriston chess reflections

• Bridgend Blitz tournament report

Support the Journal

Printed copies are available for £1, or £2 including postage within the UK.

By supporting The Thinker’s Journal, you’re helping to document and celebrate chess across Wales — one game, tournament, and story at a time.