League hosts summer chess camps

MADISON –Madison City Chess League has developed a new format for the MCCL Summer Chess Camp that focuses on competitive chess players.

“For the first time, we will offer a full-day camp and serve lunch for our higher rated players,” league executive director Ranae Bartlett said.

“We will also offer a half-day camp for students who are beginning to learn to compete at chess and need instruction at a specific level, along with those who want to learn to play chess,” Bartlett said. Lifetime league members or members who have renewed their annual membership for 2017 will receive priority and can register first.

“With our new format and outstanding instructors, we want to be sure that those who support the league with their membership dues have the first chance to secure a spot,” Bartlett said. Organizers will email a link for early registration to league members.

The summer camp on June 5-9 has three options:

* “Learn to Play Chess Camp” – Half-day camp, 1-4 p.m. Cost is $125. Students will learn piece moves, point values and basic rules. They will receive a take-home workbook. Instructor, Ed Mullin.

* “Beginning Competition Chess Camp” — Half-day camp, 8:30-11:30 a.m. Cost is $150. Open to students with USCF rating below 400. This camp is ideal for students who have begun competing and want to improve. Instructor Bill Nash will explain chess clocks and time management.

* “Full Day Competition Chess Camp” – Full-day camp. Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with lunch served. Cost is $350. Open to students with USCF rating of 400 and above. Organizers will subdivide students into three groups that will rotate through all instructors.

“This summer, MCCL is excited to offer a full immersion chess camp where kids can literally play chess and learn how to improve from the morning into the evening with special optional activities planned when the camp day ends,” Bartlett said. “When students register for the camp, they will be given the opportunity to vote on the evening activities they are most interested in, and the events will be announced before camp begins.”

Options for evening activities will include Blitz Tournament and Bughouse Tournament, along with extracurricular options for Insanity Complex, bowling, a movie or pizza supper.

To register, visit madisonchess.com and scroll down to click the link for “2017 Summer Chess Camp Registration.”