Pieces fall into place for chess comp

Mount Maunganui RSA Chess Club Club president Werner Corbe, middle, flanked by some junior players. Supplied Photo.

Entries from around the country have come in for the annual Bay of Plenty Chess Rapid taking place today.

The one-day tournament, hosted by the Mount Maunganui RSA Chess Club, is a national event which always attracts strong interest locally and from outside the Bay.

Club secretary Caleb Wright says a total of fifty to sixty players are expected to participate in some intense match-ups.

'As the rounds progress, generally the games get closer and longer as players meet others on a similar skill level as them. It's at this point that experienced players thrive. Each piece has to be moved with increased precision and economy as the precious seconds on the timer count down. Then suddenly it's all over for a hushed crowd of onlookers and it's time to set up the pieces again.”

There is a total prize pool of $1400 up for grabs, spread between the three grades of the competition.

Practice for the competition has been happening weekly at the Mount Maunganui RSA.

'The Mount Maunganui RSA Chess club offers casual play on Monday evenings as part of our programme. This is where we inspire players of all strengths to prepare.”

The final round of the tournament takes place at the Arataki Community Centre from 4.30pm.

You may also like....

0 comments

Leave a Comment


You must be logged in to make a comment.