Join us for a fun and exciting community chess tournament hosted by Big Chair Chess Club. This event brings together players of all ages and skill levels to test their strategy, sharpen their thinking, and enjoy the game of chess in a welcoming community environment. Players are encouraged to represent their local library branch and show their strategic skills on the chessboard!
Chess sets and clocks will be provided, so just bring your focus and your best moves. Players will compete in four exciting rounds of chess, with pairings based on results after each round.
Registration is required so that competitors can be properly matched for the tournament. Walk-ins may be accommodated if space allows, but it is not guaranteed.
Chess Player Check-In: 10:30 AM
1st Round Start: 11:15 AM
Lunch Break: 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM
2nd Round Start: 1:15 PM
3rd Round Start: 1:55 PM
4th Round Start: 2:35 PM
Awards Ceremony: After the 4th Round
Tournament Sections
K–12 Beginner Section
This section is designed for students in Kindergarten through 12th grade who are newer to chess or still developing their skills.
This section is ideal for players who are new to tournament chess, are still learning basic tactics such as forks, pins, and checkmates, mostly play casual games at school, home, or online, and want a fun and supportive environment to gain tournament experience.
The focus of this section is learning, confidence, and enjoying the game of chess.
K–12 Open Section (Experienced Players)
This section is for students in Kindergarten through 12th grade who are experienced chess players and ready for stronger competition.
This section is ideal for players who regularly play in tournaments or competitive games, have a USCF rating or online rating, are comfortable with tactics, time controls, and tournament rules, and want to compete against stronger opponents.
The Open Section is designed for players who enjoy serious competition and challenging games.
Time Control
15 minutes + 10 second increment per move.
Tournament Format
Awards
Top players in each section will receive:
1st Place – Trophy
2nd Place – Medallion
3rd Place – Medallion
For Support Contact
Email: compete@bigchairchessclub.org
Phone: 240-770-9223
Tournament Rules
General Fair Play
All games must be played over-the-board (OTB) on the official tournament sets provided. Players must play honestly without any outside assistance. Any form of cheating or unfair play will result in immediate disqualification.
Tiebreak System
Tiebreaks will be calculated using the Sonneborn–Berger method (sum of the scores of defeated opponents plus half the scores of drawn opponents). If ties remain unresolved, the Tournament Director may schedule a playoff (blitz or Armageddon) at their discretion.
Tournament Format
Pairings and round times will be announced before the first round. Players must be at the board when rounds begin. Late arrivals may result in a forfeit.
Player Registration & Identification
Players must register with their real names. No substitutions or transfers of entries allowed.
Behavior & Sportsmanship
Respectful behavior is expected at all times. No taunting, disruptive conduct, or unsportsmanlike actions will be tolerated. Players are encouraged to offer a handshake at the start (“Good luck”) and say “Good game” at the end of each match.
Touch-Move Rule
Standard USCF touch-move rules apply. If a player touches a piece, they must move it if legally possible. If a player touches an opponent’s piece, they must capture it if legally possible. No take-backs are allowed once a move is made.
Tournament Director Authority
The Tournament Director has the final decision in all disputes. Severe offenses such as cheating, abusive behavior, or deliberate disruption may result in disqualification and exclusion from future events.
AGE GROUP: | Teen (13-18 yrs) | Elementary (5-12 yrs) | Adults |
EVENT TYPE: | Chess/Games/Gaming |
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