Orcas Island has once again brought home chess honors.

At the Anacortes Regionals held by the Washington High School Chess Association, Orcas High School placed first in qualifying for state.

In addition, senior Colter Bond was one of three high school 2026 co-champions. Hugo Thompson of Spring Street School was a co-champion for middle school. The 2026 Washington State Championship is scheduled for Feb. 6-8 and 21-22 at the Lakeside Upper School in Seattle.

Orcas Chess Club president Lamai Hons was unable to attend the tournament, but juniors Elijah Griffith (who placed 10th) and Tim Malo stepped up to fill out the team, which also includes senior Thurmond Russell (who placed 7th).