USCF National Master Joshua Grabinsky, a fifteen year old from Coquille, Oregon, won first place in the U2300 section of the National Open at the Las Vegas International Chess Festival. The U2300 section had 109 participants, most of whom had the title of master or expert. Grabinsky dominated the field by posting five wins, two draws, and zero losses.

Joshua Grabinsky is not the first chess prodigy from the Oregon Coast. His older brother, Aaron Grabinsky, is seeking the title of International Master as he attends Webster University on a chess scholarship. Webster University has won several collegiate championships and is coached by Susan Polgar, the highest rated female player of all time.

Like his older brother in prior years, perhaps the biggest challenge Grabinsky faces is a lack of local competition. Fortunately, he has the support of a dedicated chess coach in Dr. Nancy Keller, who has driven Coos County students to tournaments all over the Western United States, even as far south as San Diego. Dr. Kyriokas Kypriotakis, a chess coach in Coos Bay, joined this trip to help split the driving on the 16 hour journey to Las Vegas.

Joshua plans on putting his prize money toward his college education.

Photo: Joshua Grabinsky playing in the National Open

Photo Credit: Tim A. Hanks