Back-to-school chess camps suited for novice, experienced players

Michael and Mitch consider their next move at a 2012 chess match. (CONTRIBUTED/RANAE BARTLETT)

MADISON – Madison City Schools Back-to-School Chess Camps will offer two options for youth who are learning to master the classic game.

Rainbow Elementary School, 50 Nance Road will host campers on Aug. 5-7. The recreation chess camp will meet from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., followed by the tournament chess camp on those dates from 1 to 4 p.m.

The camps are open to any student in public, private or home school who will enter grades K-8 during fall semester.

“Students who want to play for fun and get ready for school chess clubs can register for the recreation camp in the mornings,” parent volunteer Ranae Bartlett said. Bartlett also serves on the Madison Board of Education.

Children who attended last summer’s chess camps at Rainbow will build on what they learned, Bartlett said. The recreation camp is suitable for children who have not competed in an USCF-rated (United States Chess Federation) tournament and have not yet received a rating but want to improve their understanding of chess.

The recreation camp teaches basic rules and game objectives, along with strategy.

The tournament chess camp in the afternoons is intended for students who play competitively with current USCF ratings. USCF registration numbers will be required. “Kids will be paired with others of similar skill level,” Bartlett said.

Bill Nash, competition chess coach for the Rainbow Chess Club, and Noel Newquist, Rainbow Chess Club sponsor, will instruct the campers.

Fee for each camp is $75. Parents should pack a snack and drink for their campers. Organizers will secure the child’s reservation in the order that they receive payment and registration forms.

A link to the registration form is available at res.madisoncity.k12.al.us. For more information, email to rbartlett@madisoncity.k12.al.us.