Club Championship begins Feb 23!

The Fifth Columbia Chess Club Championship will be held from Feb 23 - Mar 22. Last year was our largest field with thirty four players. Keith Eubanks claimed his second title and only Keith and Philipp Lamby have won the club championship to date. Philipp has moved to Texas leaving Keith the clear favorite to win the 2012 Title. It looks wide open behind Keith with a surging Ben Caiello, steady Paul Farb and always improving Adam Shaw. And let's not forget two time runner up James MacDougall who could mount a serious challenge for the big trophy.

In addition to the Champion and Runner Up trophies hardware is also awarded to the Top U1600, Top U1200 and Top Jr Player, so everyone has a chance at a trophy! Unrateds will be based on performance after four rounds.

Here are the details:
Five round Swiss. One round a week for five weeks. Club members only, can join on site.

Entry fee $10 ($2/rd). One bye allowed, No last round byes. Rounds start at 7:30.

Open Section only, Game 90/d5. Accelerated Pairings will be used. Trophies to 1st, 2nd, Top U1600, Top U1200 and Top Jr. Trophy winners also receive 1yr club membership.

Casual play is now available on Monday nights from 6:00 - 8:30 at the St Andrews Regional Library on Broad River Road. If there is enough interest we may offer quick rated chess.

The Chess Players of Augusta are very active now and are just down the road. Be sure to check out their schedule for some quick and/or dual rated play. Their next Sat tournament is the Augusta Spring Rapids on March 17. Their first Sat tournament drew 22 players and was well run. If you are interested in going check at the club for car pooling opportunities.

March 17 is the Checkmate Hunger charity tournament in Lexington.

Reverse Angle 26 is coming up on Feb 25 in Charlotte. RA25 drew 62 players so if you're looking for a big tournament with a one day schedule here it is!

SC Sr. Open Mar 24-25 - Travelers Rest. Hey you kids!! Stay off my pawn!!! ages 50+: must have been born before 3/24/1962

The Big Enchilada II will be held Mar 30 - Apr 1 in Raleigh. This is a new tournament that got off to a good start last year.

A nice mix of tournaments coming up with something for everyone! Get out and play!