Charlotte Chess Center Founder Peter Giannatos shared his impression of the Naroditsky Memorial 2026. Peter calls the event a representation of what chess should be, and congratulates the winners of the Masters and Creator Invitational sections.

Peter Giannatos

Peter Giannatos

Charlotte Chess Center Founder

“This past weekend, the promise became a reality…

The inaugural Naroditsky Memorial Rapid & Blitz was a beautiful representation of what chess could and should be, a unification of top grandmasters, creators, amateurs, and fans.

With more than 300 players and hundreds of spectators joining us, we sent a clear message: this community stands behind Danya, his family, and everyone who loved him. We choose to honor him through the principles he lived by, positivity over vengefulness, and kindness over retribution.

Massive congratulations to Javokhir Sindarov for winning both the Rapid and Blitz championships, and to John Bartholomew for an incredible 9-0 sweep in the Creator Invitational!”

The Naroditsky Memorial Rapid & Blitz 2026 took place from July 3 to 5 in Charlotte, North Carolina, United States. The event is an international festival created to honor the life and legacy of Daniel Naroditsky. All funds from entry fees and spectator passes go to the Naroditsky Memorial Fund, running through the Charlotte Chess Center Foundation.

Credit: Peter Giannatos X