♟️ About the Washington Chess Federation

The Washington Chess Federation, commonly known as WCF, is the statewide chess organization for Washington State. Founded in 1946, it supports and promotes chess-related activities throughout the state. The federation is also recognized by US Chess as its official Washington State Chapter. Therefore, it connects local players, clubs, tournament directors, organizers, and scholastic programs with the national chess structure. WCF supports players of different ages and strengths through membership services, tournament organization, state championships, community information, and cooperation with regional chess organizations. National Master Josh Sinanan serves as president and acts as the federation’s principal contact for the SPICE Cup.

🏆 State Championships and Tournament Organization

Washington Chess Federation organizes and supports a broad range of over-the-board competitions. Its principal events include the Washington State Championship, Washington Open, Washington Women’s Championship, Washington Senior Championship, Washington Class Championships, Washington G/60 Championship, Washington Rapid and Blitz Championships, and related invitational competitions. Moreover, the federation coordinates representative qualification for national US Chess invitational events. It also supports the Washington Chess Club League and provides information about chess clubs and competitive opportunities throughout the state. Many WCF events receive US Chess, Northwest, or FIDE rating. As a result, players can compete locally while also pursuing rating development, state titles, national qualification, and international recognition.

🌍 SPICE Cup and Chess in Washington

WCF co-hosts the 20th Annual SPICE Cup Open 2026 with the Susan Polgar Foundation. The event takes place at Hilton Bellevue and brings a major international norm tournament to Washington State. The federation manages the primary event contact, registration support, participant communication, venue coordination, and several practical aspects of tournament delivery. In addition, WCF President Josh Sinanan serves as the published contact for further information. The federation’s involvement connects the SPICE Cup with the established chess community of Washington and the wider Pacific Northwest. Alongside the SPICE Cup, WCF helps organize the Susan Polgar Foundation National Open for Girls and Boys in Bellevue. Therefore, its partnership with the Susan Polgar Foundation supports both elite international competition and opportunities for young players.