Photos from the Tournament 09/06/2024

ByAivar Jefremov

Thamesmead London Blitz OPEN: A Thrilling Display of Chess Mastery

On June 9th, The Nest at Cygnet Square, London, buzzed with excitement as chess enthusiasts gathered for the highly anticipated Thamesmead London Blitz OPEN. The tournament, held from 14:00 to 18:00, featured a Blitz Chess format with a thrilling time control of 3 minutes plus a 2-second increment per move. With a diverse range of participants, including seniors, juniors, and female players, the event celebrated the universal appeal of chess and showcased some remarkable talents.

Tournament Highlights

The tournament followed the Swiss System for pairings, ensuring a fair and competitive environment for all 100 participants. Over 11 intense rounds, players battled it out, making rapid decisions under the pressure of the ticking clock. The event was FIDE-rated, adding an extra layer of prestige and competitiveness.

Prize Winners

The Thamesmead London Blitz OPEN offered a total prize pool of £660, distributed among various categories to recognize the achievements of different players. Here are the standout performers:

  • Winner: Foo, Benjamin – £150
  • Runner-Up: Shepard, Tom – £100
  • Best Senior 60+: Fraser-Mitchell, Jeremy – £50
  • U18 Best Junior: Skurko, Victor – £50
  • Best Female Player: Rosamund, Hale – £50

Event Details

  • Venue: The Nest, 3 Cygnet Square, London, United Kingdom SE2 9UH
  • Date: June 9, 2024
  • Time: 14:00 to 18:00
  • Format: Blitz Chess (3 minutes + 2 seconds increment per move)
  • Maximum Participants: 100
  • Entry Fees:
    • General Participants: £25
    • Seniors (60+), Juniors (U18), and Female Players: £20
    • Late Entries (after June 3, 2024): +£5

Competitive Spirit and Fair Play

The tournament was marked by an atmosphere of sportsmanship and mutual respect. Participants adhered to fair play guidelines, and any disputes were swiftly and fairly resolved by the Tournament Director and team of Arbiters. The meticulous planning and organization ensured a smooth experience for everyone involved.

Acknowledgments

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the participants, spectators, and organizers who contributed to the success of the Thamesmead London Blitz OPEN. The event was a testament to the vibrant chess community in London and the timeless allure of the game. Special thanks to the arbiters and volunteers whose efforts ensured the event ran seamlessly.

Looking Ahead

As the pieces were packed away and the echoes of clocks subsided, the buzz of anticipation for the next tournament began. The Thamesmead London Blitz OPEN not only provided a platform for showcasing talent but also strengthened the bonds within the chess community. We look forward to more such exciting events in the future, continuing to celebrate the strategic brilliance and competitive spirit of chess.

Stay tuned for announcements about upcoming tournaments and join us in our journey to promote and enjoy the fascinating game of chess. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, the Thamesmead chess community welcomes you!