New Members Tournament

Monday 18th August will be a friendly tournament aimed at beginners and people new to over the board chess.

We’re already into double figures with more signing up all the time. The abilities are ranging from playing online at grades of 1800, to completely new players, all are welcome.

We’re hoping to have an experienced players available to help out with any issues but also be able to provide some insights after the games. This is depending on the amount of experienced players we have compared to the amount of participants of course.

The aim of the tournament is to give new players a forgiving environment where they can test themselves against other players without any pressure, but enough of a structure that it’s proper games with clocks and touch move.

The clock will be set to 10+10 which means each person has 10 minutes and an extra 10 seconds is added whenever they make a move. The clock only counts down when it’s your move. We’re aiming for 4-5 games depending on how things go. Everything is liable to be adjusted on the night for what suits all the players. For example we could add a few experienced members to add challenge or convert part of the draw into a round robin.

Most of the entrants (that have told me they’re coming) are either from Poole Chess Club or no chess club, but current/potential members of other clubs are also welcome. We provide a look at our facilities, members and general vibe. There is no hard sale or compulsion to join Poole or any other club, feel free to come along, see if you enjoy and take it from there.

If you are interested in joining, please e-mail me with your name and a rough guide to playing strength. If you’re not sure if it’s right for you, please e-mail me with any concerns.

chair@poolechessclub.org.uk

If you’re an existing member/player then please come down to help out! Extra hands are always appreciated, alternatively there will be games available.

Please arrive at 7:15pm for a 7:30pm start, at Poole Centenary Club. Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QL2Temhn8zmw7zrU9 What3Words: ///expert.storm.cheeks Street view:

Tarik
August 13, 2025