National Chess Week Celebrates Success Across the Country
National Chess Week was a resounding success across the country, with at least 49 tournaments held and nearly 3,000 players participating in tens of thousands of rated games. The celebrations included a wide range of events, from rookie training camps to quick time control tournaments, all in honor of the beloved game of chess.
One standout event was organized by the Hampton Roads Chess Association in Virginia, where 48 kids participated in a Rookie Training Camp followed by a full Swiss tournament. The association also held their annual National Chess Day tournament, raising nearly $3000 for scholarships.
In Texas, the Houston Scholastic Chess Association hosted a one-day scholastic event with an impressive 314 players, contributing to the total of 1,113 participants in various Texas tournaments. Even in less populous states like Alaska and North Dakota, chess enthusiasts came together to compete and showcase their skills.
The chess festivities also reached new heights with IM Justin Sarkar winning the North Dakota Open and GM Varuzhan Akobian claiming victory in the Montana Chess Association’s Chinook Open. These events provided rare opportunities for players to face strong and experienced opponents.
The 65th Annual Armed Forces Open in Annapolis, Md. brought together current and former members of the U.S. Military for a weekend of intense competition. Stay tuned for a full report on this unique event.
In a fitting tribute to the success of the U.S. Olympiad teams, U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin introduced a resolution on the House floor recognizing their achievements. The Women’s team’s bronze medal finish marked a historic moment, and the accolades are now a part of congressional record.
National Chess Week truly showcased the passion and dedication of chess players across the country, and the diverse range of events highlighted the game’s universal appeal. Whether it was a local tournament or a high-stakes competition, chess enthusiasts came together to celebrate their love for the game.