Emmanuel Jiménez and Kristel Díaz are the new champions of Costa Rica. Both absolute and women's sections of the national chess championship, 9-round Swiss tournaments with classical time control, took place in Costa Rica Tennis Club (first round) and then at the National Stadium from January 7-15, 2023.

The open event that brought together 27 players turned into an exciting race between top-rated IMs Emmanuel Jimenez and the defending champion Leonardo Valdes.

Coming to the final round a half-point ahead of his main rival, Jiménez drew his game with Felipe Fernández. In his turn, Valdes could not break David Cabezas's resistance and had to settle for a draw as well. As a result, Jiménez retained a half-point margin and won the title with an excellent score of 8/9.

Both the champion and the runner-up completed the event unbeaten.

IM Sergio Duran and WFM Mauricio Valverde tied for third place, with the former taking bronze thanks to superior Buchholz.

"It is a very important step, I had already won this title in 2021, but it was online, and it was time to win it over the board. I am pleased to take the title since this year, I am going to make an effort to become a grandmaster. This type of results help a lot to seek sponsorship when it comes to going out and playing tournaments," Jiménez said after receiving the champion's trophy.

Final standings:

Kristel Díaz from Guapilena dominated the women's section conceding just a half-point to her opponents. After three runner-up attempts in previous years, she finally clinched her maiden national title. WFM María José Ramírez finished a full point behind on 7.5/9 while WCM Sofía Mayorga came third with 7.

"I am quite happy to win this championship. I think I played well, and I am very excited and satisfied. It is an achievement that I sought for a long time, and I am happy that my effort paid off," the champion said.

Final standings:

Photo: Costa Rican Chess Federation webpage and Emmanuel Jiménez García Facebook page