For those who haven’t competed before, this is an good way of playing new opponents across a wide range of playing abilities in Bedfordshire. Although you may face strong opposition in the first few rounds, because it is a Swiss competition, you will soon find your level.
Brian Valentine’s invitation:
Entries are invited for the 2017 Bedfordshire individual chess tournament.
The tournament is open to players who qualify under at least one of the following criteria:
- They are a member of an affiliated club (i.e. one that plays in the Bedfordshire Chess League);
- They were born in the county; or
- They live in the county
The tournament will be a six round Swiss. The opening round will be held at Bedford Chess Club on January 5th 2015. Later rounds are as follows:
- Round 2: 9th February, Bedford
- Round 3: 16th March, Milton Keynes
- Round 4: 11th April, Leighton Buzzard
- Rounds 5&6: 7th May, Open University Berrill Cafe
As usual, if opponents can agree an alternative date and venue, then they need not play on the set night. Nevertheless they must be played before the scheduled date.
The time limit is Beds League Rules, 35 moves in 70 minutes and then 10 minutes added, plus 10 seconds a move from move 1.
The prizes will depend on entries. There will be cash prizes for at least the champion and runner up plus a slow starter prize. Slow starters are those with 1 or less points after 3 rounds. If there are enough entries there will be a grading prize.
The entry fee will be £5 for ECF members and £25 for non-members. Details to join the ECF are here: http://www.englishchess.org.uk/membership/joining/guide-to-joining-the-ecf/. The cost for basic – bronze- level annual membership is £14 online.
Entries by e-mail to brian.valentine@ntlworld.com by 25th November, giving name, and club. The draw will be published by 27th November. Entry fees will be collected on the first night.
Brian Valentine
Tournament Controller
01525 755024