Remembering WIM Ruth Haring with a Special Event and a Special Winner!

The Ruth Haring Memorial Tournament at the Mechanics' Institute

This past weekend, the Mechanics' Institute Chess Club in San Francisco hosted the 3rd Ruth Haring Memorial Tournament, a FIDE-rated event honoring the life and legacy of Woman International Master (WIM) Ruth Haring. Held from May 31 to June 1, 2025, the tournament featured close to 80 players across three rating sections—2000+, 1600–1999, and under 1600—competing in four rounds of classical chess.

The top 6 boards were broadcasted on Chess.com using the new Community Broadcast function that is available to any organizer.

In a heartfelt and memorable tribute, Ruth’s son, Theodore Biyiasas, took clear first place in the top (2000+) section—and what a moment it was! This marked his first-ever clear tournament victory at the Mechanics' Institute, made all the more meaningful as it came in an event honoring his mother. Theo played with poise, confidence, and consistency, embodying the quiet determination Ruth was known and admired for. It was a truly beautiful way to honor her memory.

As someone who was honored to serve on the arbiter team for this year’s memorial, the experience was both meaningful and deeply personal. I also take great pride in having helped establish this annual event in Ruth’s name at Mechanics’—a lasting tribute to a woman who gave so much to our community, both at the board and beyond, and inspired so many of us to continue her work.

Champion for Women and Girls in Chess

Ruth Haring was more than just a strong competitor—she was a trailblazer. A five-time U.S. representative at the Women’s Chess Olympiads in the 1970s and ’80s, she stood out not only for her play but for her steadfast strength in a field that still skews male today.

When Ruth moved into leadership, she didn't just participate—she reshaped the landscape. As President of the U.S. Chess Federation (2011–2015), she championed policies and initiatives focused on increasing visibility and participation of women and girls in chess. She advocated tirelessly for fair representation, equal opportunity, and greater access to resources for female players at every level. Under her leadership, programs to support girls' involvement in chess flourished and became more prominent nationwide.

In recognition of her contributions, the National Girls Tournament of Champions was renamed in 2019 to honor her legacy as the Ruth Haring National Girls Tournament of Champions (RHNGTOC). This event continues to inspire and empower the next generation of female talent.

This year’s memorial tournament proudly continued in that spirit. Theo Biyiasas donated a $400 prize fund dedicated to female players, a gesture that served not only as financial support but also as a symbolic continuation of Ruth’s mission. It was a powerful reminder that real progress in gender equity requires both belief and tangible support.

Carrying Ruth’s Vision Forward
As someone lucky enough to have been mentored by Ruth, I can say with full certainty: she believed in people before they believed in themselves—especially girls. She recognized talent, potential, and worth, and worked—often behind the scenes—with quiet persistence to ensure that young women were seen, heard, and supported in the chess world.

I vividly remember when we faced challenges at organizations we both belonged to and volunteered for. In those moments, she would always remind me: “Nothing is impossible — we just have to find the way to do it!” She had an incredibly innovative mindset, always able to figure out solutions to even the most daunting problems.

She was both my mentor and a dear friend. Her passing came as a profound shock to me and to so many others. I will always remember her on November 29, which is also my mother's birthday, and now, Ruth’s anniversary. Not a year goes by that I won’t pause to think of her — and reflect on all that I’ve been able to accomplish, inspired by her guidance and mentorship.

Her legacy challenges all of us to do more than remember—it calls us to action. We must continue her work: building systems of support and mentorship, promoting visibility for female players, and pushing for inclusive leadership across all levels of chess.

That means investing in girls’ tournaments, creating more female-friendly spaces, uplifting new voices, and cultivating a culture where every young girl feels like she belongs at the board.

So let’s celebrate Theo’s well-earned victory, honor Ruth’s enduring legacy, and commit ourselves to carrying her vision forward: a chess community that is welcoming, equitable, and inspiring for everyone.

Ruth Haring transformed the landscape of American chess. It’s up to us to carry her light and continue the journey she so passionately began.

Note: I missed a detail that's personally important for me to be in the article, so I updated it. Thanks for bearing with me!