FM Warren Elliott took over the reigns as Jamaica's #1 player this year and would like to cement his status by reclaiming the National Crown. The two-time Jamaican champion appears to be in form as he commands the 5-0 lead having won all of his games.  NM Russel Porter, who's sole loss was to Elliott, is 2nd at 4½. Both defending champion Shane Matthews and NM Duane Rowe are close with 4 points. All players will receive two byes.

Matthews is attempting to catch Elliott after suffering a first round defeat at the hands of his new rival. Someone will have to hold Elliott in order for there to be a chance at another exciting ending such as the one occurring last year. If this should be the case, then it would come down to Porter-Matthews and Wheeler-Elliott with Rowe-Holness as another deciding encounter. Stay tuned!

Posted by The Chess Drum: 21 March 2004