Strong results for Poole Chess Club in Montenegro

After back-to-back wins against teams from Sweden and Ireland, Poole are currently in equal 39th place at the European Chess Club Cup 2026 being held in Budva, Montenegro. 108 teams from national leagues across the continent are currently battling for a €26,000 prize fund in the 7-day long competition on the Adriatic Coast. 

The team, known as Poole Patzers and supported by local company Axent Workwear, started with losses against teams from Serbia and England. Captain, John Weatherlake, said, “After a tough start, we’ve pulled together for some excellent team performances and two great wins. We’re now looking forward to our Round 5 opponents from Sweden, who include two International Grandmasters.”

Playing in the Poole team are Haroon Majeed, Nick Lee, James Thomas, Philip Amoakao, and Mike Waddington. Grandmasters playing for other teams in Montenegro include current World Champion D. Gukesh and six of the World Top 20. Participation for Poole in the annual European event follows success last year achieving promotion to Division 2 in the 4NCL national league.

Poole Chess Club Round 1 game against the Crvena Zvezda Serbian team pictured below…

Thinking of joining us? Come along to our open evening on 23rd November, meet the members and enjoy some friendly games of chess!

If you’d like to join us, get in touch at hello@poolechessclub.org.uk

Craig
October 21, 2026