05.14.15 Students from Cheverus High School in Portland, Maine competed in the National High School Championship in Columbus, Ohio on April 10-12, 2015. Cheverus fielded two teams and took 32nd place in the U1600 section 15th in the unrated section. Here's the illustrated tournament report with USCF crosstables.

Thanks to Dan LaVallee for contributing to this report.

USCF crosstable of this event

The Cheverus High School chess team traveled to Columbus, Ohio on April 10-12 to compete at the National High School Championship. Catching a 5:30 a.m. flight from Portland, the team landed in Columbus at 11:30 a.m. and made it to the first round at 1:00 p.m. Most of the team struggled with the first two rounds on Friday but Frank Jin had 1.5 points going into the three rounds on Saturday. Cole Tracy, Ricardo Romero, and Nathan Dunn were undefeated on Saturday and went into the two games on Sunday in strong positions. By the end of the tournament, the four members of the U1600 team, Ben Peterson (2.5), Ricardo Romero (4.5), Frank Jin (1.5), and Taylor Jackson (2.5), ended up 32nd of the 59 teams. Cole Tracy (4) and Nathan Dunn (4) finished 15th to earn a trophy in the unrated section. The team had a great experience and enjoyed watching the GMs and playing against strong opponents. Every member of the team improved his rating, led by Ricardo Romero who jumped 200 points.

Thanks to all who made this trip a great success!

Almost 1500 high school students playing chess!

Ben Peterson (right) and Taylor Jackson prepare for their next game.

Ricardo Romero is on the end of the table and Frank Jin is three seats in, both facing the camera.

A team picture in front of the forest of trophies.