The Texas Action Champion for 2026 is GM Joshua Ruiz Castillo. 59 players competed in the 5 round g/30,d5 event, organized by Edgar Acosta of the Poison Pawns Chess Club and held at The Houston Chess Studio on February 21. GM Castillo scored a perfect 5-0. He won $300, the title and a beautiful crystal trophy. In second place was Oklahoman David Luscomb, winning $150 with 4-1, his only loss was to GM Castillo.
First place in the U1600 section went to Thanh Nguyen, with a perfect 5-0. Being unrated he was limited to winning $100. Tied for second place, each with scores of 4-1, were Marc Ybarsabal and Adrian Spelling, each taking home $62.50.
The U800 section was won by new comer Brandon Ward, playing in his first rated tournament, with a perfect score of 5-0. In second place, with 4-1, also playing in his first tournament, was James Roberts. Being unrated both were limited to winning $100 each.
The next Texas State Championship event at The Studio is the 2026 Senior Championship on March 21-22. Followed in April by the Quick State Championship on April 25th. Later in the year The Studio hopes to hold the 2026 Chess Triathlon State Championship.
