MCCL players eye state championship on Labor Day weekend
MADISON – Members of Madison City Chess League or MCCL will travel to Spring Hill College in Mobile for the 2024 Alabama State Chess Championship on Labor Day Weekend.
“We encourage MCCL members to attend the state championship if you are able to travel on Aug. 30 through Sept. 1. It’s a great way to showcase our strength and talent,” MCCL Executive Director Todd Guthrie said.
Early registration ends Aug. 18 at midnight. Late registration will be $90 until registration closes on Aug. 28 at midnight. On-site registration will not be available.
“Get ready to show off your chess skills and compete against the best players in Alabama at the 71st annual Alabama State Chess Championship,” Guthrie said. Competitors will gather at Byrne Memorial Hall, 4000 Dauphin St. on Spring Hill’s campus.
The championship includes Open Section; Reserve – U1600; and Amateur – U1200. All sections have Prize Fund or PF Guaranteed; will use 6SS G/120, d5; and have an entry fee of $60.
Prizes vary by section:
* Open – First place will receive $1,000 and a plaque; second place, $550; and U1900, $350.
* Reserve – U1600 – First place will receive $600 and a plaque; second place, $350; and U1400, $250.
* Amateur – 1200 – First place will receive $450 and a plaque; second place, $250; and U1000, $200.
Round times are scheduled for Aug. 30 at 7 p.m.; Aug. 31 at 9 a.m., 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sept. 1 at 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Contestants in all sections are required to hold memberships in Alabama Chess Federation and US Chess.
The annual membership meeting for Alabama Chess Federation will convene on Sept. 1 from 1 to 2 p.m. Attendees can learn about upcoming events and changes across Alabama. At this meeting, members will elect ACF’s President and Scholastic Vice President.
Mobile Chess Club Inc. is organizing the tournament. The state championship is an official event of Alabama Chess Federation.
Speaking to MCCL members, Guthrie said, “May this year be filled with learning, growth and plenty of chess victories. Keep up the great work both on and off the board.”
For more information, email tournament contact Tom Denton at tdenton8192@gmail.com or visit madisonchess.com.
